Social Security has established numerous rules, regulations, and laws that must be met to be approved for disability benefits. Regardless of whether you are claiming SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) or SSI (Supplemental Security Income), the law states you have to meet specific financial and medical eligibility requirements. When the local Kansas City administration receives a claim, they determine if the claimant’s condition is disabling and if they have earned enough credits for SSDI or their income is low enough to meet SSI rules.
Medical Requirements
Social Security will not entertain a claim for benefits if the disability is not expected to last one year. There are no temporary benefits available through Social Security.
A similar rule holds true for the disability; it must be complete, not partial. SSDI and SSI are not like workers comp where the percentage of disability is considered.
To qualify, the claimant must:
* Have a severe medical condition
* The condition must meet the requirements as defined by the SSA
* Impossible to perform any work done in the past, and
* Lack of education, age, and skill makes it impossible to perform less demanding work
Finacial Requirements
If you earn $1,180 or more each month, you are ineligible for benefits under Social Security law. However, there are special circumstances that do apply, and it is wise to consult with a knowledgeable attorney.
To be eligible for SSDI you will have to work a specific number of years and have paid FICA taxes. There is a sliding scale based on age. If, for example, you became disabled at 21, you will have to have accumulated six work credits that take 1.5 years. If you became disabled at 50, you must have accumulated 28 work credits that take seven years of work.
As you may surmise, being approved for Social Security disability benefits is complex; many people find it advantageous to hire an attorney to help them win their claim.
Social Security law is complex and difficult to understand. If you reside in Kansas City, contact the Grundy Disability Group, LLC at http://www.grundydisabilitygroup.com/ and request a free case evaluation. Like us on our facebook page.
