How to Determine if You Qualify for Social Security Disability

Suddenly becoming disabled due to a workplace injury or simply an unexpected illness can be a very difficult experience in a person’s life. Not only is the health aspect difficult to deal with but also the financial side as you may not be able to afford simple necessities anymore. However, if you are currently going through such a situation, the good news is that you do have options to make the circumstances a little easier. One of those includes going on social security disability. However, before you are accepted, you first need to qualify for it. So, the following includes further information on the requirements for qualifying for social security disability.

Does Your Injury meet the SSD’s Definition of Disability?

Social Security’s definition of disability is something that is very strict and can often make or break your application. Perhaps the easiest way to tell is if your injury significantly limits your ability to do basic things at work. For example, has it been impossible for you to sit, walk or handle items properly for more than a year? If this is your situation, you may be able to receive SSDI benefits. An important thing to note is that SSDI is an insurance program NOT a welfare program. What this means is that your financial status is not a factor in determining whether you qualify. All that matters is if your disability meets the proper requirements. On the other hand, SSI does have some welfare aspects (if you are disabled) so your financial situation can impact that.

According to the National Council on Aging:

“SSI provides minimum basic financial assistance to older adults and persons with disabilities (regardless of age) with very limited income and resources. Federal SSI benefits from the Social Security Administration are often supplemented by state programs.”

Have You Worked Recently?

Another requirement by the social security department before providing you with benefits is proof that you have worked long enough and recently enough. This is because they want to know if you have earned enough credits to your name.

According to the Social Security website:

“You can earn up to four credits each year. The amount needed for a work credit changes from year to year. In 2021, for example, you earn one credit for each $1,470 in wages or self-employment income. When you’ve earned $5,880, you’ve earned your four credits for the year.
The number of work credits you need to qualify for disability benefits depends on your age when you become disabled. 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.”

Have You Paid Into Social Security?

Contrary to popular belief, not every job pays into social security. Although most jobs, have their employees pay into social security. There are certain situations where you would not see yourself paying into the program. Certain religious professions can opt-out of the Social Security system. Also some police officers and other government workers – including public school teachers – do pay into Social Security, but others do not. Students who work for their University while attending may be exempt from Social Security withholdings.

Although income over a certain threshold is exempt that doesn’t mean you aren’t covered by Social Security since you still paid into SS on all your income below $142,800 annually as of 2021.

There are agencies such as Blue Modo Media, that can help you with your Social Security Disability claim.

Conclusion:

Suddenly becoming injured and unable to work can be a daunting time in your life, and having to worry about finances can really cause the situation to worsen. So, it is highly recommended to utilize the information above, so you can properly apply for your SSD benefits.

You might also like:

Does Your Injury meet the SSD’s Definition of Disability?

Have You Worked Recently?

Have You Paid Into Social Security?

Conclusion:

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