Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides financial protection for people when they need it the most. If you or your loved one cannot work due to a medical condition, an injury, or a disability, benefits may be available. Unfortunately, some disability applicants struggle to get their claim approved.
Here, our Rockford Social Security disability lawyers explain the basic requirements for qualifying for SSDI benefits.
How to Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits
It is not always easy to know whether or not you meet all of the Illinois Social Security disability requirements. Do not assume that you do not qualify — even if your initial application for SSDI benefits has already been rejected by the agency. Your case deserves to be reviewed by an experienced Social Security disability lawyer. As a general rule, eligibility depends on the following three important factors:
- Income/Employment: You must meet income requirements and employment history requirements. To start, applicants must have worked in a job that resulted in them paying a sufficient amount into the Social Security disability insurance system. In addition, you must not currently be working on a full-time basis. If you have too much income, your disability claim can be denied.
- Disability Status: Next, applicants must have a qualifying disability or medical condition. Notably, the Social Security Administration provides an official list of impairments. These are conditions that are generally assumed to qualify. Though, each case will always be reviewed on an individual basis. To be clear, if your disability or medical condition is not listed, you still might be eligible for Social Security disability benefits.
- Severity of Condition: Finally, supporting medical evidence must be produced that establishes the severity of the applicant’s disability. To meet the SSDI requirements, your disability or your medical condition must be severe enough to adversely impact your ability to work.
How Our Social Security Disability Attorneys Can Help
Ideally, you will be able to get relatively quick access to the full SSDI benefits that you rightfully deserve. Though, in reality, the system does not always work that way.
Many valid disability claims are initially denied. In fact, based on data published by the Social Security Administration (SSA), approximately 70 percent of initial Social Security disability applications are rejected by the agency. That being said, a significant number of those claims are eventually accepted on appeal.
If your claim was denied, you need a lawyer. Our Rockford Social Security disability attorneys know how to help our clients get the maximum benefits. Our law firm has a deep understanding of the claims process and all relevant rules and procedures. We are prepared to help you put together the strongest Social Security disability appeal.
Contact Our Rockford Social Security Disability Lawyers Today
At Tuite Law, our Illinois Social Security disability attorneys are strong, aggressive advocates for our clients. If your SSDI claim was denied, it is essential that you take immediate action. For a free, fully private review of your claim, please contact our legal team today at (815) 965-5777.
From our law office in Rockford, we handle Social Security disability cases throughout the region, including in Winnebago County, Boone County, Stephenson County, and Ogle County.
