Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can serve as a way to remain financially afloat when adults are no longer able to work due to a disability. Navigating the application process can be complex and overwhelming, but understanding the basic ins and outs of what you need to know can make it more manageable.
With that said, it’s important to understand that a staggering fraction of first-time SSDI applicants receive a rejection in response to their request for benefits. As a result, it’s generally wise to seek legal guidance before filing for benefits, even if you have a strong sense of what you need to do in order to be as successful in your efforts as possible.
The basics
To qualify for SSDI, you must have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. Generally, this means a condition that prevents you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Additionally, you must have accumulated a sufficient number of work credits based on your age and the number of years you’ve worked.
You may know that you deserve benefits, but the SSA is going to need to see proof before the agency will grant your request. As a result, the strength of your medical evidence is often the deciding factor in the application process. Ensure that your medical records comprehensively document your disability, including diagnosis, treatment history and how the condition impacts your ability to work. Regular communication with healthcare providers about your condition and keeping detailed personal notes on how your disability affects your daily life can be helpful in this regard.
It bears repeating that given the complexities of the SSDI application process, seeking legal guidance can be advantageous. An attorney can help you navigate the process, work to ensure that your documentation is complete and represent you in the event that you need to appeal a rejection from the SSA. With so much at stake, it’s better to be overprepared than underprepared.