Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. If you are seeking SSDI benefits, it is important to understand the process for getting approved. This blog will outline the key factors that are considered when determining eligibility for SSDI and provide tips for increasing your chances of getting approved.

What is SSDI?

SSDI is a program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. In order to be eligible for SSDI, you must have worked a certain number of years and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes.

The amount of your monthly SSDI benefit is based on your earnings before you became disabled. The SSA uses a formula called the "average indexed monthly earnings" (AIME) to calculate your benefit amount. The AIME is based on your highest 35 years of earnings, adjusted for inflation.

What qualifies as a disability for SSDI?

To be eligible for SSDI, you must have a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The SSA has a list of impairments that are considered "disabling," which includes conditions such as:

Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g. back injuries, osteoarthritis)

Cardiovascular conditions (e.g. heart disease, high blood pressure)

Respiratory disorders (e.g. asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

Neurological disorders (e.g. multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease)

Mental disorders (e.g. depression, anxiety)

If you have a condition that is not on the SSA's list of impairments, you may still be eligible for SSDI if you can prove that your condition is as severe as a listed impairment and that it prevents you from working.

How do you apply for SSDI?

To apply for SSDI, you will need to complete an application and provide supporting documentation, such as medical records, to the SSA. You can apply online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.

When you apply, you will need to provide the following information:

Your Social Security number and proof of your age

Your employment history for the past 15 years, including the name and address of your employer and your job duties

Your medical history and treatment, including the names, addresses, and phone numbers of your doctors and hospitals

Any medications you are taking and their dosages

It is important to be thorough and accurate when completing your application and providing supporting documentation. Any discrepancies or incomplete information may delay the processing of your application.

What happens after you apply for SSDI?

Once you have applied for SSDI, your application will be reviewed by the SSA. The review process consists of four levels:

Initial review: Your application will be reviewed by a disability examiner to determine if you meet the basic eligibility requirements for SSDI. If your application is approved at this stage, you will begin receiving benefits. If it is denied, you can appeal the decision.

Reconsideration: If your application is denied at the initial review stage, you can request a reconsideration. Your application will be reviewed by a different disability examiner, who will consider any new evidence you provide. If your application is still denied, you can appeal the decision.

Administrative law judge hearing: If your application is denied at the reconsideration stage, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. This is an opportunity for additional consideration.

In conclusion, SSDI is a program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. To be eligible for SSDI, you must have a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death and have worked a certain number of years and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. The SSA has a list of impairments that are considered "disabling," but you may still be eligible for SSDI if you can prove that your condition is as severe as a listed impairment and that it prevents you from working. The application process for SSDI involves completing an application and providing supporting documentation, such as medical records. If your application is approved, you will begin receiving benefits. If it is denied, you can appeal the decision through reconsideration and an administrative law judge hearing. It is important to be thorough and accurate when applying for SSDI and to provide as much documentation as possible to support your claim.