Are you unable to work due to a medical condition or disorder?
You may be able to get disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers two programs that provide monthly cash benefits to people who can’t work because of a disability: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
We can help you apply for these benefits. Our website provides information about how to qualify for disability, how to apply for benefits, and what happens after you apply. We also have a section with answers to common questions about disability benefits.
Continue reading for more information on how to qualify for disability.
What Counts as a Disability
A disability is a physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairment that has a significant impact on one’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.
SSDI is a government-provided insurance program that helps people who can’t work because of a medical condition. If you’re not sure if you qualify, we will help guide you through the process.
How hard is it to get disability benefits? A person may be eligible for disability benefits if they qualify under one of the following categories:
- They are unable to work because of their impairment
- They are unable to work in any occupation because of their impairment
- They are only employable in certain occupations and their impairment prevents them from working in those occupations.
Types of Medical Conditions and Disorders That Can Qualify You for Disability
Different types of medical conditions and disorders that can qualify for Social Security disability benefits include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Cancer
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Crohn’s Disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Alzheimer’s Disease/Dementia
- Lupus
Another example of qualifying conditions is those that result in “deaf-blindness.” These are individuals who are both legally blind and have a hearing impairment.
Other qualifying impairments may be bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, drug addiction, and an intellectual disability. Qualifying people can apply for disability income here.
Substantial Gainful Activity
It is important to note that your condition must prevent you from engaging in any “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). Substantial gainful activity is defined as any activity that you do for pay or profit.
If you are currently working and your earnings fall below the SGA limit, you may still qualify for benefits.
Substantial Gainful Activity Limits
The SGA limit varies depending on the type of work you do. For example, if you are blind, the limit is higher than if you are not blind.
If you are earning more than the SGA limit, the SSA will automatically deny your claim. But, if you have a medical condition that causes you to have periods of unemployment, you may still be eligible for benefits.
Social Security Disability Benefits
If you’re not sure if you qualify for disability benefits, don’t worry! The Social Security Administration is clear about what qualifies as a disability. You must have a medical condition or disorder that prevents you from making a living.
If you think you may qualify, the next step is to speak with an experienced disability lawyer. They can help you navigate the application process and get the benefits you need. Good luck!
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