Who is Eligible for SSD Benefits?
If you have a mental or physical health condition that keeps you from being able to work, or is life-threatening, you may be eligible to collect Social Security disability (SSD) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The Social Security Administration says you are 'disabled' if you have a medical condition or disability that:
- Keeps you from working full-time
- Has lasted, or is expected to last, at least one year
- Is life-threatening (especially when diagnosed with other disorders or diseases)
To qualify for SSD or SSI benefits, you must have been diagnosed with your disability or condition by a physician or specialist. You also should be undergoing treatment and regularly visit your doctor or specialist.
Social Security Disability Benefits vs. Supplemental Security Income
There are two types of disability benefits. Your work history affects which one you may be eligible for if you're disabled.
Social Security Disability Benefits
To qualify for SSD benefits, you must be 'insured.' Meaning, you must have an earnings record. You may qualify for these benefits if you worked long enough – and recently enough – to have paid into the Social Security system.
Supplemental Security Income
If you don't qualify for SSD benefits due to your work history, you may be eligible for SSI. (Your income and assets must be below a certain level.) You can find out if you qualify by contacting the Social Security Administration.
More Eligibility Factors
The Social Security Administration also looks at other factors, including:
- Your average individual monthly earnings (you can work part-time and qualify, but your gross monthly income cannot exceed $1,070)
- The seriousness of your condition or disability (it must interfere with your ability to perform basic work-related activities)
- Your work history (whether you can do any other type of job based on your background)
- Age, education, etc.
How Edgar Snyder & Associates Can Help
It seems unfair, but the truth is that the Social Security Administration denies over three-quarters of initial applications – even when people deserve them. Trust Edgar Snyder & Associates to get you the money you need.
If we believe you should receive SSD or SSI benefits, we can help you apply. By hiring our law firm from the beginning, you increase your chances of being approved for SSD benefits.
If you were denied and we believe you should have been approved, we can appeal the decision.
Either way, you won't owe us anything unless and until your claim is approved. There really is "Never a fee unless we get money for you."
Don't Go it Alone – Get a Free Legal Consultation Today
You've already suffered enough – get the money you need and deserve.
Contact Edgar Snyder & Associates today. It could mean the difference between collecting Social Security disability benefits or not.
Call 412-394-1000, or fill out the form at the right. Phones answer 24/7.
For more information on Social Security disability benefits, check out our Social Security disability articles and resources.