How to Apply for SSDI

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available for qualifying individuals who can no longer work full-time due to a disabling medical condition. To qualify for these monthly financial benefits, you must meet certain work and medical requirements.

Our experienced New Jersey SSDI lawyers at the Lynch Law Firm, PC can help explain eligibility criteria and the application process for obtaining benefits. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to review the circumstances of your condition and to determine if you may have a viable claim. If you need assistance in filing an application or appealing a denial, contact our firm to get the help you need.

Work History

The SSDI program is based on the accrual of work credits, which are acquired as you pay Social Security taxes. Credits are earned based on your annual wages or self-employment income. Each year, you can earn up to four credits.

In 2017, one credit equals $1,300 of your quarterly income. This means that your annual income must be at least $5,200 for you to receive four credits for the year.

Depending on your age when you apply for SSDI benefits, you will need between 20 and 40 credits to qualify for benefits. You must have acquired 20 of these within ten years from the date you became disabled if you are 32 or older.

Medical Condition

SSDI benefits are provided for those with a disabling medical condition that is terminal or expected to last for a year or more. This disabling condition must prevent you from being able to perform the essential functions of your job or any other job in another field.

One way to establish that you have a disabling condition is to show that your condition meets or equals a listing in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book Listing of Impairments. This book lists several types of medical impairments and the requirements you must meet to be considered disabled for each.

The Blue Book includes a list of medical conditions for each of the major body systems. If you meet the requirements for one of these listings, you should be considered disabled. If your condition is not on this list but is as severe as another impairment that is listed, you may be able to qualify for benefits on that basis.

If your condition does not meet or equal one of the listings, the SSA will determine if your disabling condition prevents you from working. It considers whether you can perform work you did previously or any other type of work, based on the following factors:

If you are unable to do the work you did previously or another type of work and have the required work credits, you should be approved for SSDI. Those who meet the medical requirements but do not have enough work credits may be able to receive benefits though Supplement Security Income.

Contact Our Experienced SSDI Attorneys

SSDI claims can be complex and may require the assistance of an experienced SSDI lawyer. We can review your claim during a free consultation to determine if you meet the requirements to qualify for SSDI. Our injury lawyers can also help appeal denied claims, as most SSDI claims are denied on the first try.

We work on a contingency fee basis, so if your claim is not approved, you will not owe us anything.

Call us at (800) 518-0508  to get started.