Do I Qualify

ROB LEVINE, SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LAWYER

WHAT DOES THE SSDI PROCESS LOOK LIKE FOR YOU

When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, there are three things you must look at to determine whether or not you qualify. First, you must determine if you have a disability that meets the SSA’s guidelines and prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity.  If you do have a disabling condition, the condition must be a long-term or permanent disability. If your condition is not expected to last one year or more, you will not qualify for benefits. The third thing you need to look at is whether or not you have enough work credits. If you do have a qualifying disabling condition that is expected to last at least twelve months and you have earned enough work credits, you will likely qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.

The government takes all of your assets and resources into account when determining if you qualify for SSI. Resources cannot total more than $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple and include: real estate; bank accounts; cash; stocks; and bonds.  The Social Security Administration generally will not count as “assets”: your house, property where you live, certain life insurance policies with face values of $1,500 or less, and burial funds up to $1,500. Our offices can provide you a more personalized analysis of your eligibility based on your resources and income.

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HOW AN EXPERIENCED SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LAWYER CAN HELP

Applicants cannot apply for SSI benefits online. You will be required to complete the application over the phone or in-person at a Social Security Administration Office. Our Social Security disability team can make these arrangements for you – we recommend applying over the phone to avoid the inconvenience of an office visit.

Do you have the time and resources to build a claim? We do!

Your application for SSI will require sufficient evidence to support your claim of disability and financial need.

Some of the evidence you’ll be required to produce when applying for benefits include:

  • Social Security card or number;
  • proof of citizenship;
  • proof of age;
  • proof of income;
  • evidence of resources; and
  • medical documentation (including hospital records, tests, doctors’ reports, and other proof of an ongoing medical condition or disability).

Don’t delay your application – call now for a free case consultation! Remember – we don’t get paid unless you receive benefits.

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE ELIGIBILITY

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available to people who meet certain earnings requirements by paying enough Social Security taxes. Generally, you must meet two different earnings tests: a “recent work” test based on your age at the time you became disabled; and a “duration of work” test to show that you worked long enough under Social Security.

In addition to meeting Social Security’s definition of disability, you must have worked long enough and recently enough under Social Security to qualify for disability benefits. Social Security work credits are based on your total yearly wages or self-employment income. You can earn up to four credits each year.

The amount needed for credit changes from year to year. In 2012, for example, you earn one credit for each $1,130 of wages or self-employment income. When you’ve earned $4,520, you’ve earned your four credits for the year.

The number of work credits you need to qualify for disability benefits depends on your age when you become disabled. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years, ending with the year you become disabled. This translates to needing to have worked for 5 out of the previous 10 years. However, younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.

SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME ELIGIBILITY

Are you disabled and unable to work? Do you have limited or no income and struggle to make ends meet? Do not give up hope – there are government programs available to help you pay for basic living expenses. Call us today to learn more about Supplemental Security Income and whether you qualify for this benefits program.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a tax-funded Federal income program designed to help the disabled, elderly, and blind pay for things like housing, food, and clothing. There are strict eligibility requirements for SSI. Some applicants find the process overwhelming or intimidating, particularly when an initial application is denied.

Do you qualify for SSI benefits or SSDI benefits? We can help you determine which program you are eligible for Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Insurance. Call us today to schedule a free consultation. There is no cost to you unless we get your application approved.

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