Social Security Disability Law is a complex area of law that can be difficult to understand. It is important to understand the basics of Social Security Disability Law in order to determine if you are eligible for benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for administering the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. To be eligible for SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. To be eligible for SSI, you must have limited income and resources. In both cases, you must also have a disability that meets the SSA’s definition of disability. The SSA defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. The SSA considers a variety of factors when determining if an individual is disabled, including age, education, work experience, and the severity of the impairment. The SSA also considers whether the individual can adjust to other work. If you are found to be disabled, you may be eligible for monthly benefits, medical coverage, and other assistance. It is important to understand the process for applying for Social Security Disability benefits and the appeals process if your claim is denied. An experienced Social Security Disability attorney can help you understand the law and navigate the process.
To be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits, you must have a physical or mental condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death, and you must have worked long enough and recently enough under Social Security to qualify for benefits. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years ending with the year you become disabled. However, younger workers may qualify with fewer credits. In addition, you must be unable to do any substantial work because of your medical condition(s) and you must provide medical evidence that you have a physical or mental impairment expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Your medical condition must also prevent you from doing the work you did before and any other kind of substantial gainful work that exists in the national economy, considering your age, education, and work experience.