If you’re considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits in Morris or the surrounding area, you’re probably wondering whether you qualify or not.
Our disability attorney near Minooka can help you determine if you qualify for Social Security benefits. This blog will provide you with some general information to help you better understand who qualifies for disability benefits.
Social Security Benefits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has two programs they offer to help those living with disabilities earn a livable income.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits pay monthly benefits to provide assistance with day-to-day living expenses.
The SSDI program pays benefits to those who have worked long enough and paid into the social security program through their earnings. You typically must have worked for 5 out of the last 10 years, but the rules may vary depending on your age.
The SSI program is meant to benefit adults and children with disabilities who have limited income and resources. You may be able to qualify for both programs.
Contact the experienced Social Security disability attorneys at the law office of Hanson & Fisher to help you get started on your disability claim.
Qualifying for Benefits
Social Security benefits are in place to assist individuals and families who are dealing with a long-term or permanent disability that will leave them unable to work for at least one full year.
If you have been injured or diagnosed with a medical condition that has left you unable to go back to your job or perform at a new occupation, you may be eligible for social security benefits.
The SSA will evaluate your situation and whether you are able to perform at your job or a related position before approving you for benefits.
Work History
Disability applicants need to be aware that work history is a vital part of the evaluation process. You must have worked long enough–and recent enough–and paid Social Security taxes on your income.
Over the course of your employment, you would have earned Social Security credits that can be applied to your claim.
The SSA will also evaluate your condition to determine if it will limit your ability to work or find another job to earn a substantial income.
The initial application process can be very confusing, which is why we recommend you contact the experienced and knowledgeable attorneys at our law firm to help you. Contact us today for your free consultation.
Recognized Disabilities
In order to be approved for SSDI or SSI benefits, you will have to meet the minimum disability requirements detailed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book. It lists out the medical criteria required to receive disability benefits.
The SSA defines a disability as a medical condition that you’ve lived with or is expected to last for at least one year or is likely to end in death.
This condition must keep you from earning what is called substantial gainful activities (SGA). That is, basically, the amount of income you can earn through working.
You will need to provide medical evidence to support your claim, proving your disability through medical reports, records of treatment, and an official diagnosis.
Every case is different, which is why it’s best not to fight it alone. Claimants who don’t hire attorneys are much more likely to be denied and have to go through the appeals process.
Contact Hanson and Fisher Today
The attorneys at Hanson and Fisher in Morris, IL have dealt with thousands of Social Security Disability cases, and have the knowledge to help you win your case.
Get the benefits you need and deserve. Call us today!
