Many people who are unable to work because of a disabling condition depend on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits to help stabilize their finances and live life to the fullest. Unfortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) commonly rejects applications for unclear reasons, despite many applicants qualifying for SSDI.
If your SSDI claim has been denied or delayed, help is available from a knowledgeable Social Security disability law firm. With guidance from a Cumming SSDI lawyer, you can better understand how these benefits work, what evidence you need to submit to receive them, and how you could potentially appeal a rejection of benefits under certain circumstances.
Eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance
The SSA provides disability compensation to American citizens who are unable to participate in the workforce due to a medically identifiable impairment. SSDI is available for people who have worked for many years prior to becoming disabled and, while doing so, paid FICA taxes through their income.
The SSDI program is funded by income taxes, so the SSA requires applicants to have a sufficient number of work credits. Anyone who becomes disabled after the age of 31 must have worked for at least five of the previous 10 years to qualify for disability compensation. Workers who become disabled before the age of 31 have different SSDI work credit requirements that a Cumming attorney from our firm can explain in more detail.
Furthermore, someone injured at the age of 32 or older would need at least 40 work credits. Generally, you earn one work credit for every quarter-year you work. This means you can only earn a maximum of four work credits per year. Your total yearly income determines the amount of monthly compensation you will receive from the SSA upon approval of your SSDI application.
Appealing a Denial for SSDI Benefits
One of the most crucial components of SSDI eligibility in our area is meeting the SSA’s definition of “total disability.” According to the SSA, you are considered totally disabled and eligible for benefits if you meet the following criteria:
- Your injury prevents you from working as you previously did;
- Your overall medical condition prevents you from being able to adjust to a different line of work; and
- Your disability will last for at least one year and/or directly result in death.
Many SSDI applications are denied on medical grounds, meaning the SSA disputes whether a disabled worker meets the aforementioned criteria. In this scenario, an applicant can submit an initial appeal of their rejection online or contact their local Social Security office to request an official review. For non-medical denials or issues with applying or appealing for SSDI benefits, it is best to seek guidance from a hearing claims advocate from our team on the best course of action.
Work with a Cumming SSDI Attorney Today
Applying for disability compensation from the SSA can be an immensely complex process, and it is not uncommon for initial applications to be rejected. Fortunately, an initial denial doesn’t mean you can’t pursue benefits. Seek advice from a Cumming SSDI lawyer first to ensure you submit the best possible application or appeal.
Dedicated guidance and support from a Social Security disability law firm can make all the difference in your ability to get the benefits you need. Call our intake team today to set up a consultation and discuss your circumstances.
