The Basics of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI provides support for workers who have been severely impaired and can no longer work to support themselves.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a benefit that protects against loss of income in the event a worker develops a long-term or permanent disability and can no longer work. SSDI is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) but differs from Supplemental Security Income (SSI) that benefits adults and persons with disabilities. Different than SSI, SSDI is an insurance that workers pay into and earn coverage over their working careers.

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, you must suffer from a physical or mental impairment. The SSA disability definition states that your impairment must be medically determinable. In other words, a physician can diagnose and discuss the limitations of your impairment. Additionally, to qualify for SSDI benefits, this impairment must be lasting and significant enough to prevent you from gainful employment.

SSDI Requirements

If you have an impairment that is preventing you from working, you may qualify to receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. The basic qualifications, as laid out by the SSA, are explained below.

Current Work Situation. If you are currently working and earning a living wage ($1,310 a month in 2021) then generally you will not qualify for SSDI. If you have an impairment that is preventing you from working, then you may qualify.

Severity of Your Condition. If your condition has prevented you from completing basic work-related tasks, such as walking, sitting, lifting, standing, or retaining information, and has (or is expected to) lasted for a period of at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI.

Disability Status. If your condition is already recognized by the SSA as severe enough to prevent gainful employment you may qualify. If your condition is not on the SSA list of disabilities, then you will need to provide documentation that your condition is as severe as those previously recognized.

Ability to Work. Are you capable of completing the work you have done in the past? If not, are you able to do other types of work, despite your medical condition? If the answer is no, you may qualify for SSDI.

It is possible to meet the requirements as they are described by the SSA and still have your application for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits denied. If this has happened to you, it may be time to consult with a Social Security Disability Law Firm to discuss your options for appeal or SSDI Lawsuit.

How Can an SSDI Disability Lawyer Help?

Applying for SSDI benefits often does not require the assistance of an attorney. You have the option to either apply in person, at your local Social Security office, or apply online. A benefit of applying online is that you can save your application as you go and return later to complete it.

In either case, the SSA provides a checklist of items you will need to complete the application, such as:

• birth date and location,
• family information,
• employment details,
• job history,
• list of conditions with detailed supporting documentation, and
• bank account and routing number.

If the application process seems overwhelming, you may consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable in Social Security Disability law. They can guide you through the application process and assist you in gathering appropriate medical records and other evidence to support your disability claim.

If you’ve already received a denial for your SSDI claim, a skilled disability insurance lawyer from a reputable SSDI law firm can review your application and help you file an appeal. A successful appeal will include a full scope of your medical condition with strong supporting evidence of your disability.

Should your claim still be denied, your next step may be to file an SSDI lawsuit. An experienced social security lawyer will be able to assess your case and give advice on the possible outcomes of litigating your SSDI denial. If your case does go to court, your SSDI disability lawyer will prepare you for court, question expert witnesses, and above all else, serve as your advocate.

Best Social Security Disability Lawyers, Haverford, PA

If you need assistance filing an SSDI application, appeal, or a potential SSDI lawsuit, contact the Law Offices of Andrew Lapat of Haverford, PA to request a consultation.