How to Qualify for Social Security Disability
Social Security Disability benefits are very difficult to get. Unfortunately, because of the amount of fraud involved, they usually deny everyone the first time they apply. The process is lengthy and many times you must go through a number of appeals before approval. There are two benefits: the one discussed here is Social Security Disability (SSDI), which means you must have worked a qualifying number of quarters in order to be eligible.
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Instructions
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If you are not working, or your earnings are less than $940 monthly, you can qualify for disability.
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How bad is your condition? If it is severe enough to interfere with work or related tasks, you can continue to the next step.
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The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a list of conditions that automatically qualify a person as disabled. The list may be found on their website. You must have medical documentation in order to show you have these conditions.
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If you are able to do the work you have done in the past, you will not be found disabled. However, if your condition impairs you to the point that you cannot do the work you used to do, you may qualify.
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By evaluating your age, education, skills, and work history, the SSA will determine if you can do any other type of work. If you can, you will not be found disabled. This is the last step for evaluating your disability.
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If you believe that you meet all the criteria listed in the first five steps, go the SSA website and apply for disability. You may also apply over the phone at 1-800-772-1213.
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Make sure you are available for all interviews you must complete. Gather your medical records for the past 15 years or since you have been determined disabled by your doctor. The SSA will request a copy of all records.
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Tips & Warnings
Apply as soon as you become disabled. The process can take years, so you want to apply right away.
You must be disabled for at least two years in order to qualify for Medicare.
