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Social Security Disability

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Social Security Disability

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We recognize the complexities of navigating the intricate administrative system, especially when dealing with limited technical expertise, necessary skills and knowledge to guide you through every stage of the process.

We understand that obtaining favorable outcomes for Social Security Disability claims and appeals may appear daunting to many. However, we firmly believe that with the right guidance and comprehensive understanding of the system, success is attainable for all our clients. Regardless of the size or complexity of your case, we are fully committed to standing by your side, advocating for your rights at every step of the journey.

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Understanding Eligibility Criteria
The SSA has created a five-step process to determine whether an application for SSD is approved. The criteria include the following:
1. Currently Employed
The Social Security Administration (SSA) applies income limits when evaluating disability claims. If an individual’s monthly earnings exceed a specific threshold, they may be disqualified from receiving disability benefits. However, if their income falls below the designated limit, the SSA will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the applicant’s medical condition and other relevant factors. Please note that the income limits set by the SSA can vary depending on various factors such as the type of disability benefit program and the applicant’s circumstances.
2. Severity of Medical Unfitness
The Social Security Administration (SSA) applies income limits when evaluating disability claims. If an individual’s monthly earnings exceed a specific threshold, they may be disqualified from receiving disability benefits. However, if their income falls below the designated limit, the SSA will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the applicant’s medical condition and other relevant factors. Please note that the income limits set by the SSA can vary depending on various factors such as the type of disability benefit program and the applicant’s circumstances.
3. Meeting Eligibility Against SSA's List of Disabilities
If the applicant’s medical condition is not included in the list of illnesses that automatically qualify for disability, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will assess the severity of the condition to determine eligibility. If the condition does not meet the criteria, the evaluation proceeds to step four. The SSA recognizes various disabling conditions, including:
  • Mental disorders, such as bipolar disorder, autism, depression, panic attacks, anxiety, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Musculoskeletal system problems, such as back and spine conditions, arthritis, amputations, fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, scoliosis, and fibromyalgia
  • Skin disorders, such as psoriasis, burns, and ichthyosis
  • Respiratory illnesses, such as asthma, emphysema, primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH), cystic fibrosis, and lung transplants
  • Immune system disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), HIV/AIDS, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Digestive tract problems, such as Crohn’s Disease, liver disease, hepatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Impairments that affect multiple body systems, such as Lyme disease and metabolic disorders
  • Senses and speech issues, such as vision, hearing, and speech loss
  • Endocrine disorders, such as diabetes, thyroid problems, neuropathy, and obesity
  • Cardiovascular conditions, such as heart failure and coronary artery disease
  • Neurological disorders, such as cerebral palsy, stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy
  • Genitourinary impairments, such as chronic renal (kidney) disease and chronic hemodialysis
  • Hematological disorders, such as sickle cell disease, hemophilia, and myelofibrosis
  • Malignant neoplastic diseases, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and most kinds of cancer
4. Fitness for Previous Duty
Once the applicant’s claim is submitted, the agency will carefully evaluate the details and assess whether the applicant is able to perform their previous work considering their injury. If the applicant is found incapable of performing their previous work, the SSA will proceed to step five.
5. Fitness for Employment

The SSA will conduct a comprehensive assessment of factors such as the applicant’s age, medical condition, education, past work experience, and skills. This evaluation aims to determine if the applicant is capable of engaging in gainful employment in a different capacity. If the applicant is found to be physically unable to perform other work, the SSA will classify them as “disabled.”

Types of Social Security Disability Benefits
Disability Insurance Benefits (SSD or SSDI)
This is one of the most widely recognized benefits offered by the SSA. Disability insurance benefits are designed to support individuals who have become disabled after being actively employed. To be eligible, applicants must have accumulated a minimum of five years of work within the past ten years prior to the onset of their disabilities. Additionally, dependents such as children and spouses may also be eligible for benefits if a parent qualifies for SSDI. The amount of disability benefits is determined based on the applicant’s work history and earnings.
Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC)
Children with disabilities who are between the ages of 18 and 22 may qualify for benefits if their parents receive Social Security retirement benefits, SSDI, or if their parents are deceased. This provision aims to provide support to disabled young adults who rely on their parents’ Social Security benefits.
Disabled Widow or Widower (DWB)
These benefits are available to widows or widowers who are over the age of 50 and become disabled within seven years of their spouse’s death. To be eligible, the widow or widower must have been married to the deceased for at least 10 years. These provisions ensure that individuals who experience the loss of a spouse and subsequently face a disability are provided with necessary support and financial assistance.
How To Apply for Social Security Disability Benefit?

Injured workers, including those eligible for workers’ compensation, are advised to apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits promptly upon becoming disabled. You have two options to apply for SSD benefits: scheduling an appointment with a representative from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or applying online. The assigned claims representative will assist you throughout the application process, addressing any inquiries you may have. 

Furthermore, the claims representative will handle the necessary paperwork to submit your claim to Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS will evaluate your case and make an initial determination regarding your disability status according to the SSA’s requirements. The claims representative will also assess the disability programs you may qualify for and determine the benefits based on your work history.

We strongly recommend that applicants consult with a Social Security disability attorney prior to initiating the application process. An attorney can provide guidance on filing for benefits, assist in gathering the required documents, and ensure a smoother submission of your claim.