Do You Have a Strong Social Security Disability Case?
Managing the intricacies of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can seem challenging, especially when you feel unsure about the strength of your case. It’s important for individuals seeking financial support due to disability to understand the criteria and factors that play into building a strong SSDI case. Let’s talk about some key considerations to help you determine the strength of your Social Security Disability case.
Substantial Gainful Employment
One primary factor determining eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits is the ability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). If you are working and earning above a certain threshold, you cannot prove that you are disabled.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets specific income limits to define substantial gainful activity for SSDI. These limits vary depending on whether you are blind or non-blind and are adjusted annually for inflation. For example, in 2024, the monthly substantial gainful activity amounts are $2,590 for blind individuals and $1,550 for non-blind individuals. That means if you make those amounts, you are not eligible to apply for disability because Social Security deems you gainfully employed.
Before initiating your application for SSDI benefits, evaluate your employment status and income to determine whether you meet the SGA criteria. Earning above the specified threshold will impact your eligibility for benefits or bar you completely from applying if you earn too much.
Serious Medical Condition
An essential prerequisite in eligibility for SSDI benefits is having a severe medical condition or conditions that hinder your ability to participate in substantial gainful activity. According to the SSA, a disability is a serious medical condition that is expected to result in death or has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months.
To establish the severity of your medical condition, you must present supporting evidence for your claim, including medical records, test outcomes, statements from physicians, and other pertinent documents such as work history. Additionally, consulting with medical professionals who specialize in your area of disability is essential in building a solid case.
Disability Insured Status
Another crucial consideration in determining the strength of your SSDI case is your disability insured status. To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must be “insured.”
During your employment history, you acquire insured status by earning sufficient work credits, also known as quarters of coverage (QCs). The SSA requires a minimum of 20 QCs earned in the last ten years to be considered fully insured for disability benefits.
Exceptions to the work credit requirements may apply in certain circumstances, such as for younger individuals under 31 or in specific cases outlined by the SSA. Understanding your disability insured status is essential in determining your eligibility for SSDI benefits.
Exertional Limitations
Assessing your exertional limitations is another critical aspect of evaluating your SSDI case. The SSA categorizes exertional limitations based on your ability to perform physical activities such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and carrying.
When applying for SSDI benefits, you must demonstrate how your exertional limitations affect your ability to work. For example, if your medical condition restricts you from performing specific physical tasks required for employment, it strengthens your SSDI case.
Consulting with medical professionals and vocational experts who can assess your exertional limitations and provide supporting documentation is essential in building a compelling SSDI case.
Age
Age plays a significant role in the SSDI evaluation process. The SSA considers age when assessing an individual’s capacity to adapt to various forms of employment. Generally, individuals over the age of 55 may find it easier to qualify for SSDI benefits, especially if they have significant medical impairments that limit their ability to work.
The SSA uses a grid system called the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (often called the “grid rules”) to evaluate disability claims based on age, education, work experience, and residual functional capacity. Understanding how your age impacts your SSDI case can help you navigate the application process more effectively.
In conclusion, evaluating the strength of your Social Security Disability case involves assessing various factors such as substantially gainful employment, medical condition severity, disability insured status, exertional limitations, and age. By understanding these key considerations and gathering relevant supporting documentation, you can build a strong SSDI case and improve your chances of securing the benefits you deserve. If you believe you meet the criteria for SSDI benefits but have been denied, consider hiring an attorney experienced in disability law to help you navigate the appeals process successfully.
Why Hire Arthur Law Firm?
Our knowledgeable and experienced team is committed to assisting individuals build a case for obtaining the benefits they are entitled to. With a deep understanding of the SSDI application and appeals process coupled with a commitment to providing personalized attention to each client, we strive to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
At Arthur Law Firm, we believe in advocating tirelessly for our clients’ rights. Whether you’re facing challenges with substantial gainful employment, proving the severity of your medical condition, or establishing your disability insured status, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our comprehensive approach involves thoroughly assessing your case, strategic planning, and a relentless pursuit of a favorable outcome.
Don’t let the complexities of SSDI claims overwhelm you. We acknowledge the weight of the decision you’re facing today and are committed to assisting you in approaching it with the thoroughness it requires. Contact Arthur Law Firm right away (419) 782-9881 for a free consultation. With Arthur Law Firm by your side, you can have confidence in your SSDI case and take the first step toward securing the disability funds you need.