We have a comprehensive understanding of the Social Security/Disability process
Qualifications for Social Security Disability Benefits
Understanding S and SSI Eligibility
Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provide vital financial support for individuals with disabilities, but understanding qualifications is crucial. While SSD eligibility depends on your work history and payroll contributions, SSI serves low-income individuals regardless of work experience.
However, meeting these preliminary criteria doesn’t guarantee approval. You must also prove that your condition prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). Additionally, the Social Security Administration (SSA) rigorously evaluates each claim, examining medical records, work capacity, and income sources.
Misconceptions often lead to denied claims, making it essential to understand that both programs require comprehensive documentation of your condition and its impact on your ability to work. However, the Social Security Disability attorneys of First Ally Law Group in Ballwin, MO are here to help.
Contact us today to discuss your situation and determine whether you’re eligible. Let’s work together to garner the benefits you deserve.
Work History Requirements for SSD
Understanding SSD eligibility requirements for work history is crucial, as it depends on earning sufficient work credits through employment. Work credits are the foundation of SSD, earned through your taxed income, with a maximum of four credits possible per year. In 2024, you earn one credit for each $1,730 in wages – meaning you’d need $6,920 in annual earnings to receive all four credits.
The number of work credits required for SSD eligibility varies by age. Generally, you need 40 credits total, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability arose. However, younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.
- Before age 24: You may qualify with six credits earned in the 3 years before disability
- Age 24-31: You need credits for half the time between age 21 and becoming disabled
- Age 31+: You typically need the full 40 credits, with 20 earned recently
For instance, if you’re 50 years old and earning $30,000 annually, you’ve likely met the work credit requirements by consistently earning four credits yearly. However, meeting work history requirements is just one aspect—you must also meet strict disability requirements.
Disability Requirements for SSD
Fulfilling the disability requirements for SSD involves proving that a severe medical condition prevents you from substantial gainful activity. Your condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities, as well as meet the criteria in SSA’s Medical Listing of Impairments (Blue Book), or be equally severe.
The SSA first determines if you can perform your previous work, considering physical and mental limitations from your condition. It evaluates your ability to perform tasks like lifting, standing, remembering instructions, or interacting with others. If you can’t return to your prior occupation, it assesses whether you can adjust to other types of employment, considering your age, education, skills, and medical restrictions.
Additionally, your condition must have lasted or be expected to last at least 12 continuous months or result in death. Some illnesses, like advanced cancers or ALS, may qualify for expedited processing through Compassionate Allowances. SSD eligibility focuses primarily on the severity and duration of your disability, along with your work history.
We’re Here to Help
At First Ally Law Group in Ballwin, MO, we understand that Social Security Disability Insurance is complex. Our experienced lawyers can help you determine eligibility, gather all relevant documentation, complete an application, and represent you in appeals.
Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
While similar and part of the same program, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) differs fundamentally from Social Security Disability (SSD).
SSI vs. SSD
While SSD eligibility requires sufficient work credits, SSI offers support for disabled individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. However, it enforces strict asset limits – individuals can’t own more than $2,000 in resources ($3,000 for couples), excluding certain items like a primary home and one vehicle.
SSI applicants must meet similar disability requirements as SSD, proving a medical condition that prevents substantial work. However, the financial criteria are paramount – monthly income must fall below the specified thresholds.
Common qualifying scenarios include young adults with disabilities who haven’t accumulated sufficient work credits, elderly individuals with limited retirement income, and those who’ve never worked due to their conditions. Lastly, SSI evaluates all household income and resources, including support from family members, and some states supplement federal payments with additional benefits.
Get the Assistance You Deserve
Understanding the distinctions between SSI and SSD eligibility helps individuals pursue the most appropriate program for their situation, as some may qualify for both. As a disability insurance law firm, First Ally Law Group can help educate, complete an application, and offer representation in appeals. If you need assistance, contact us today.
Common Reasons for Denied Claims
Unfortunately, most Social Security Disability claims are denied on the first attempt. Common reasons for denial include:
- Inadequate medical evidence to prove disability severity
- Failure to follow prescribed treatments
- Incomplete medical records
- Insufficient work history
- Earnings above substantial gainful activity levels
Additionally, the Social Security Administration may deny claims if it determines that the applicant can perform other types of work, even if they can’t return to their previous occupation. If the SSA denies your initial application, don’t lose heart – our SSD and SSI attorneys can help, whether by providing more documentation or representing you in an appeal.
The Importance of Legal Assistance in Navigating SSD/SSI Claims
Legal representation can significantly improve claim success rates. Experienced attorneys, like those of First Ally Law Group in Ballwin, MO, understand the qualifications and can gather necessary medical evidence, work history documentation, and expert testimony.
Our lawyers help navigate complex application processes, meet filing deadlines, and prepare strong appeals if needed. We’re particularly valuable in proving how medical conditions prevent your ability to work, providing detailed evidence, and demonstrating compliance.
Most importantly, we work on contingency, only collecting fees if your claim is approved. As a result, we make legal assistance accessible to those who need it.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
You don’t have to navigate the Social Security Disability claims process alone. First Ally Law Group has helped countless clients secure the benefits they need.
Contact us for a free evaluation of your claim. During your consultation, we’ll assess your case, explain the requirements, and outline how we can help strengthen your application.
With extensive experience in SSD and SSI claims, we’re committed to helping you get the benefits you deserve. Contact us today.
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A personal approach
At First Ally, we get to know our clients, the judges, and experts. We’ve designed our firm around individuals – our clients’ needs as individuals; understanding individual judges’ approaches; and individual questions tailored towards specific experts. This personalized approach helps us prove why and how our individual clients’ disabilities keep them from working full-time jobs.