Tag: ssdi

Special Rules for Social Security Disability Over Age 50

Did you know that there are special rules for Social Security Disability programs for people age 50 and over? At age 50 and over, having a medical condition that limits your ability to work could qualify you for disability benefits even if you have been denied in the past. 

How Does Age Affect Social Security Disability?

After you turn 50 years old, your age becomes an important factor when filing a Social Security Disability claim. In fact, it can sometimes be easier to be awarded disability after 50. Those under age 50 are considered “younger individuals” and must prove the inability to perform any competitive employment to be awarded disability benefits. Generally speaking, individuals aged 50 and over might not be required to adjust to a different type of work even if physically able.

Rules for Social Security Disability After 50

When applying for disability benefits, your medical condition will be assessed by the Social Security Administration so they can determine if your condition qualifies as severe enough to receive benefits immediately. By working with a social security disability attorney, you can determine if your condition is listed in the SSA Blue Book and then proceed to go through the application process. If your medical condition does not qualify, you may still be eligible for benefits. The SSA uses the “grid rule” to help them determine eligibility. 

What Is The Social Security Disability Grid?

The Social Security Disability grid has rules that help evaluate the level of disability individuals may have, regardless of any diagnosis or medical condition. There are four factors that the grid rule analyzes, including residual functional capacity (RFC), education, previous work experience, and transferable skills. 

Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)

RFC evaluates the amount of strength-related work an individual can perform. It will assess whether an individual can push, lift, walk, and stand. For individuals who have a low capacity to perform these actions, their chances of being awarded disability after 50 are increased. A person’s RFC is classified into four categories:

  • Heavy: able to lift more than 50 lbs
  • Medium: able to perform frequent lifting of 25 lbs
  • Light: can lift 10 lbs but no more than 20 lbs occasionally
  • Sedentary: unable to lift more than 10 lbs

Education

A person’s level of education is a factor in determining eligibility for disability after 50. In general, less education means the chances of being approved for a disability claim are increased. The levels of education are classified in four different ways:

  • Individual has completed a recent educational program that serves as skilled job training
  • Individual is a high school graduate or higher
  • Individual has a limited education level of 11th grade or less
  • Individual is illiterate or unable to communicate

Prior Work Experience

The assessment of an individual’s previous work experience includes how they performed in their last job. An applicant will be classified as either unskilled, semi-skilled, or skilled. The less experience an individual has, the more likely it is that they will qualify for disability after 50. For individuals who are unskilled or can only perform light work, the eligibility for benefits may increase. 

Transferable Skills

The number of skills an individual has gained from previous jobs will have an impact on disability benefits eligibility. The SSA will determine if there are skills obtained at a previous job that are transferable to a new position that is similar to the last one. Those with fewer skills may have an increase in eligibility. 

Need Help Applying for Social Security Disability?

Sometimes it can be difficult to ask for help when you need it. If you are 50 or over and need assistance in applying for social security disability benefits, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill. During tough times, you may be unsure where to turn and feel like all hope is lost. We’re here to tell you it’s not. Our attorneys are dedicated to representing people just like you. Schedule a free evaluation today to find out whether or not you are eligible for disability benefits.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal insurance program used by qualified workers who can no longer work. Those who qualify and are insured under the SSDI program will receive an SSDI payment each month. So, what is the average SSDI payment qualifying participants can expect?

How Are SSDI Benefits Calculated?

The Social Security Administration has a system to calculate your benefits called the Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME) and the Primary Insurance Amount (PIS). Is it a complex formula that is difficult to use to calculate your expected benefits on your own, but the SSA can give you an estimate. 

Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME)

This is a tool the SSA uses to index your lifetime earnings. During this process, they account for up to 35 years of your working years, along with the increase in general wages that happened during those years. This is to ensure that your future payments mirror this rise. The SSA will use the years you have the highest indexed earnings and calculate the average earnings, and then round down to reach your AIME. 

Primary Insurance Amount (PIA)

The PIA is the base amount of benefits you will receive. Using the total of three fixed percentages from your AIME, the SSA will determine your PIA. As an example, someone who becomes eligible for SSDI benefits in 2021 may be calculated like this:

  • 90% of the first $996 of AIME
  • 32% of the AIME over $996 through $6,002, and
  • 15% of the AIME over $6,002

Average SSDI Payment Amounts

If you are eligible for SSDI benefits, your amount is not based on how much income you have but on your average lifetime earnings before your disability began. The average SSDI payment amount for 2021 is about $1,277. The highest monthly SSDI payment you can receive in 2021 at full retirement age is $3,148. 

Why Is My SSDI Payment Low?

Your benefits amount may be reduced if you receive other disability payments such as a worker’s compensation settlement. Reductions like this are referred to as “offsets.” However, most other disability benefits will not affect your average SSDI payment, such as payments from private insurance or veterans benefits. If you haven’t worked many years, if you have gaps in your work history, or if you have several years with low earnings your benefit amount may be lower than average.  

Get Help Applying for SSDI Benefits Today

Applying for SSDI benefits is a challenging task and is best handled with the assistance of a skilled disability attorney. The SSDI lawyers at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill will ensure your records are in order so your application is as strong as it can be. We will help you avoid unnecessary delays and increase your chances of winning the benefits you need and deserve. Call our office today to learn more or to schedule a free evaluation. 

The coronavirus has affected people worldwide, and this widespread virus has caused the rates of unemployment in the United States to skyrocket. Due to this, the U.S. government passed the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act in 2020 and the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021. These are both meant to provide direct economic assistance for Americans who have been negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are some limitations on who will receive stimulus money based on income level. So what do you need to know about SSDI, SSI, and stimulus checks? 

Who Is Eligible For The COVID-19 Stimulus Check?

The 2nd stimulus check was provided in the amounts of $600 per individual, $1,200 per couple, and $600 for children. Individuals with an adjusted gross income (AGI) that falls at or below $75,000, $112,500 for heads of household, or couples who earn below $150,000 are eligible to receive the COVID-19 relief funds. Those who earn above these amounts may still receive a stimulus check, but the amounts will be reduced. 

Will SSDI or SSI Affect My Stimulus Check?

Many people are wondering, “Am I eligible for the COVID-19 stimulus check if I also receive SSDI or SSI benefits?” If you participate in the SSDI or SSI programs, the IRS claims you should automatically be eligible to receive the stimulus money. If you received money on the first or second round of payments, you should qualify for future stimulus payments. However, if you were claimed as a dependant on someone else’s tax return, that could affect your eligibility. 

Will COVID-19 Stimulus Money Affect My Disability Benefits Eligibility?

The COVID-19 stimulus check will not count as income for SSI eligibility purposes, and there is no need to report it to the Social Security Administration as income. The money is also not taxable, so it also does not count as a resource as long as you spend the full amount within 12 months of receiving it. For those receiving SSDI benefits, the stimulus check should not affect eligibility. 

What If My Income Is Lower Than When I Filed My Last Tax Return?

If you had decreased income in 2020 due to the loss of a job and/or starting disability benefits, there is a chance you may not receive the next stimulus check. However, if you filed a 2019 tax return that is above the $75,000 or $150,000 threshold, but you are under that threshold upon filing your 2020 taxes, you could get your stimulus payment in the form of a rebate with a later tax return. This is referred to as a Recovery Rebate Credit. 

Beware of Stimulus Check Scams

Please be aware that the IRS will not contact you for personal financial information. Many scams surround the COVID-19 relief money and people have received phone calls from someone claiming to be from the Treasury Department or the IRS. The IRS will securely mail you a letter to your last known address approximately 15 days after your money was deposited into your account or mailed as a paper check. This letter will inform you of how the payment was made, and if you did not receive your payment, you can request a replacement check from the IRS. You can also check the status of your payment through the IRS website. 

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one needs legal advice about SSI, SSDI, and stimulus checks for COVID-19 relief, please reach out to the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill today. Our team of experienced attorneys is available to help you get the money you deserve.

Are you dealing with health issues and financial uncertainty? You’re not alone. When you’ve become unable to work due to a health condition, you may need financial assistance to pay for your livelihood. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an available resource for those needing financial assistance due to a disability. 

What is SSDI?

SSDI is considered an “entitlement program,” meaning it is available to those who have paid into social security and earned enough credits. By making their contribution to the Social Security fund, recipients of SSDI are considered “insured”. The Social Security Administration provides benefits to those who cannot work enough due to certain medical conditions. 

Who Can Qualify for SSDI?

SSDI is available for those individuals who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. There are a variety of impairments that qualify under SSDI. Some of them include disorders affecting the cardiovascular system or musculoskeletal system as well as neurological disorders and cancer. To be considered a candidate for SSDI, a person should be under the age of 65 and have earned a specific number of work credits, working at least 5 out of the last 10 years. 

How Much Money Can You Make And Still Get SSDI?

SSDI Income Limits

In general, SSDI recipients are unable to perform what the Social Security Administration refers to as “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). Substantial gainful activity means you can work enough to make more than $1,310 per month in 2021 or $2,190 if you’re blind. In general, SSDI payments will stop if you are earning more than those amounts. 

Working and SSDI Benefits

There are some exceptions to the SSDI income limitations. SSDI recipients can perform a trial work period during which they may be able to make more than the SGA amount and maintain SSDI benefits. Sometimes, during a one-month trial period, SSDI recipients can test their ability to work and continue to receive full benefits even if the amount earned exceeds SGA. 

Ticket to Work Program

Those who are looking to work toward financial independence and are also receiving SSDI benefits can sign up for the SSA’s Ticket to Work program. This program supports those ages 18 to 64 who want to work but are also Social Security disability beneficiaries. The program waives SGA earning limits, so recipients can go through the program and complete trial work while still receiving benefits. If a participant gets a job through the program, SSDI benefits will stop if the amount earned exceeds the SGA amount. 

Ready to Apply for SSDI?

If you think you might qualify for SSDI benefits and are ready to apply, contact the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill help. Our team of experienced disability attorneys is ready to assist you throughout the process. If you are unsure whether or not you will qualify for SSDI, we are happy to discuss your options and answer your questions. The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill can also help if you were previously denied SSDI benefits. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a free consultation. 

Many people qualifying for disability have one big question about the income they are going to be receiving. Is SSDI taxable? The question is not so simple to answer as it can vary based on your specific situation and location. Here is a breakdown of how taxable your SSDI may be.

Before receiving SSDI benefits, there are two major factors that must be in play to qualify for benefits. The first is the definition by which the government deems someone qualified to receive benefits:

First, the SSA says, “Your condition must significantly limit your ability to do basic work such as lifting, standing, walking, sitting, and remembering—for at least 12 months.” The condition must prevent you from doing the kind of work you did previously, and based on your age, education, experience, and transferable skills, you are unable to perform other work.

Additionally, you must have a pre-qualifying disability from the SSA’s Approved List and make less than $1310 in monthly wages.

SSDI has supported Americans since Social Security came into existence during the New Deal acts of the 1930s.

When do you pay Federal Tax for SSDI?

Generally, SSDI income is not taxable unless your federal taxable income is above a certain threshold. Currently, as of December 2020, the threshold for a single income amount that is not taxable is $25,000 and $32,000 when married and filing jointly.

State Tax Possibilities for SSDI

The above rules stand for federal taxation of SSDI, but what about State taxes? Historically, states have not taxed Social Security Income, including disability income. However, in recent years, some states have began implementing state-specific policies on how social security income is taxed. The following 13 states have their own policies in place:

  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Kansas
  • Minnesota
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • New Mexico
  • North Dakota
  • Rhode Island
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • West Virginia

The state regulations on social security income often mirror the Federal regulations and simply add a state-specific layer to the way your income is taxed, but in some states, the regulations and ruling can differ slightly.

How Are SSDI Taxes Calculated?

Your reported income for taxes does not necessarily include the entirety of your disability income. The way this is calculated is based on your other sources of income and a portion of your social security income. If your calculated total is below the threshold set in your state or federally, you will not receive any taxes on your disability income. Additionally, this means that if your disability benefits are increased for any reason, you would potentially get taxed on a portion of that increase.

All of this can be confusing to navigate. This is one of the many reasons people often seek council with an experienced attorney to help them make sure they take the best route possible for their specific needs.

Need Help Navigating SSDI and Taxes?

Many of the questions people have about the income they receive can blur the lines of legal support and accounting support. Let our experienced social security disability lawyers help! Our attorneys have specialized in Social Security Disability Income and SSI legal services for over 30 years and we are prepared to help you through the process! Schedule a free consultation with one of the experienced attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill.

It was never your plan to stop working before retirement. You’ve worked hard your entire life, but an unexpected medical condition keeps you from working now. Should you apply for SSDI benefits? The Social Security Administration has an updated list of medical conditions that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from working. So, what are the SSDI qualifying conditions? 

Conditions that Qualify Under SSDI

The Social Security Administration has a list of impairments for each major body system that may support an individual’s qualification for SSDI. These conditions are considered severe enough to prevent a person from having gainful employment to support themselves or their family. Many of the conditions listed are either permanent, have a specific duration, or are progressive illnesses. For all other listings, there must be evidence to support the condition is severe and will last for a period of at least 12 continuous months. 

SSDI Qualifying Conditions for Adults 18 and Over

Part A of the Listing of Impairments from the Social Security Administration covers adults that are 18 or older. The conditions include disorders affecting:

  • The Musculoskeletal System: These may result from hereditary, congenital, or acquired pathological processes as a result of inflammatory, infections, traumatic or developmental events or degenerative processes. 
  • Special Senses and Speech: This can include visual disorders such as blindness and requires measuring an individual’s visual fields. 
  • Respiratory Disorders: This can include disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, pneumoconiosis, asthma, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, chronic pulmonary hypertension, and lung transplantation. 
  •  Cardiovascular System: Impairment in this category may result from chronic heart failure or ventricular dysfunction, discomfort or pain due to myocardial ischemia, syncope or near syncope, or central cyanosis. 
  • Digestive System: Disorders can include liver dysfunction, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, short bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and malnutrition. 
  • Genitourinary Disorders: Examples can consist of chronic glomerulonephritis, hypertensive nephropathy, diabetic nephropathy, chronic obstructive uropathy, and hereditary nephropathies.
  • Hematological Disorders: Includes disorders that disrupt the normal development and function of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and clotting-factor proteins such as bone marrow failure, disorders of thrombosis and hemostasis, and hemolytic anemia. 
  • Skin Disorders: These may include disorders affecting the skin such as ichthyosis, bullous diseases, hidradenitis suppurativa, chronic infections of the skin or mucous membranes, burns, dermatitis, and genetic photosensitivity disorders.
  • Endocrine Disorders: This can include disorders affecting the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, adrenal gland, pancreatic gland, and more. 
  • Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems: This included non-mosaic Down syndrome.
  • Neurological Disorders: This can include epilepsy, amyotrophic sclerosis, coma or persistent vegetative states, or early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. 
  • Mental Disorders: There are 11 categories of mental disorders including schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, neurodevelopmental disorders, and more. 
  • Cancer: This includes all cancers, except for certain cancers associated with an HIV infection. 
  • Immune System: Include immune dysfunction due to impaired cell-mediated immunity, issues with antibody production, and more. 

Visit the SSA website to see the full description of each disorder.

SSDI Qualifying Conditions for Children Under 18

Part B of the Listing of Impairments from the Social Security Administration covers children under 18 years old. The conditions included are:

  • Low Birth Weight and Failure to Thrive: Low birth weight is evaluated in children from birth to age 1 and failure to thrive from birth to age 3. 
  • Musculoskeletal System: Defined as the inability to ambulate effectively or perform fine and gross movements effectively.
  • Special Senses and Speech: Visual disorders, including blindness.
  • Respiratory Disorders: Includes chronic lung disease of infancy, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, or cystic fibrosis. 
  • Cardiovascular System: Impairment in this category may result from chronic heart failure or ventricular dysfunction, discomfort or pain due to myocardial ischemia, syncope or near syncope, or central cyanosis. 
  • Digestive System: Disorders can include liver dysfunction, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, short bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and malnutrition. 
  • Genitourinary Disorders: Includes diabetic neuropathy, hypertensive neuropathy, chronic glomerulonephritis, chronic obstructive uropathy, and hereditary nephropathies. 
  • Hematological Disorders: Includes disorders that disrupt the normal development and function of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and clotting-factor proteins such as bone marrow failure, disorders of thrombosis and hemostasis, and hemolytic anemia. 
  • Skin Disorders: Impairments under this category can include dermatitis, hidradenitis, ichthyosis, suppurativa, burns, genetic photosensitivity disorders, or infections of the skin or mucous membranes.
  • Endocrine Disorders: This can include disorders affecting the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, adrenal gland, pancreatic gland, and more.
  • Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems: Includes non-mosaic Down syndromes.
  • Neurological Disorders: Includes epilepsy, coma, or persistent vegetative states as well as neurological disorders that cause bulbar and neuromuscular dysfunction, disorganization of motor function, or communication impairment. 
  • Mental Disorders: Can include intellectual disorders, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders, developmental disorders in infants and toddlers, autism spectrum disorders, and more. 
  • Cancer: All cancers are evaluated except for those associated with an HIV infection. 
  • Immune System Disorders: Include immune dysfunction due to impaired cell-mediated immunity, issues with antibody production, and more. 

Visit the SSA website to see the full description of each disorder.

Ready to Apply for SSDI Benefits?

There are other factors that are considered when the Social Security Administration determines whether you qualify for SSDI benefits. If you think you may be eligible for SSDI, the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill can help. Having practiced disability law for more than 30 years, we are experienced lawyers for social security disability – ready to assist you with every step of the application process. If you were previously denied SSDI benefits, our experienced attorneys can also help you with the appeal process. Contact us today for a free consultation. 

Should I Apply for SSDI On My Own?

Suppose you’ve spent most of your life working hard and paying into Social Security and are now unable to continue due to your age or a decline in your health. In that case, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). There are many qualifying factors that determine if you are eligible for SSDI, such as whether you can continue working, how severe your condition is, and whether you can do another type of work, to name a few. If you believe you qualify, the next step is applying for SSDI benefits. Once you’re ready to apply, you might be wondering, “should I apply for SSDI on my own?” Acquiring assistance from an experienced disability attorney can make the process easier and increase your chances of being approved. 

What Is Involved In The SSDI Application Process?

Though it may appear as though applying for SSDI is as simple as filling out a few forms, there is much more that goes into the application process. There is an extensive amount of paperwork and communication with the Social Security Administration required for a successful outcome. Additionally, your medical evidence must be obtained and evaluated. 

Information Needed to Apply for SSDI Benefits

To apply for SSDI benefits, information regarding you, your medical condition, and your work history will be needed. 

Personal Information

Applying for SSDI benefits may require personal information such as:

  • Your date and place of birth
  • Your social security number
  • Your current or former spouse’s social security number and date of birth as well as the place of marriage and date of divorce or death if applicable
  • Name and birth dates of any children who are minors
  • Your banking information including bank name and routing number or account number

Medical Information

Medical information needed when applying for SSDI may include:

  • Name, address, and telephone number of someone who knows details about your medical condition to assist with application process
  • Names of medications you are taking and the prescribing doctor
  • Dates and names of any medical tests you have undergone 
  • Dates of treatments you have had along with names, addresses, phone numbers, and patient ID of the corresponding doctors or medical facility in which the care took place

Work Information

Your work history will play a part in determining your eligibility. Information needed may include:

  • Names and addresses of employers from the current year and year prior
  • The amount of money earned in the current year and previous year
  • A list of up to five jobs you have had in the last 15 years with dates of employment
  • A copy of your Social Security Statement
  • The start and end dates of any active-duty U.S. military service prior to 1968
  • Information regarding any workers’ compensation benefits you field or intended to file for

Benefits of Hiring a Disability Attorney to Apply for SSDI

When you choose to hire a disability attorney to assist you in the SSDI application process, you increase the likelihood that your application will be approved. A disability attorney is familiar with the Social Security Administration and the rules that pertain to SSDI applicants. They are also available to assist you in the long process of acquiring the necessary documents to help prove your eligibility. An experienced staff member will complete your application and review your information while checking for missing details or inconsistencies that could affect your approval. Errors and omissions may negatively impact your claim and could result in being denied SSDI benefits. If this happens, you can file an appeal, but this may cause a delay in receiving your benefits. 

Get Help Applying for SSDI Benefits

The disability attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill understand the SSDI application process and want to make it as easy as possible for you. Having practiced disability law for more than 30 years, we are experienced lawyers for social security disability – ready to assist you with every step of the application process. Many people assume it is easy to be awarded benefits, but it’s not that simple. Applying for SSDI benefits is a complicated legal process that you shouldn’t have to navigate alone. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our disability attorneys. 

Working hard for the majority of your life and then encountering an unexpected medical condition that keeps you from working can feel frustrating, scary, and uncertain. Throughout your career, you paid into the Social Security system, meaning you may be eligible for financial relief through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). 

SSDI Qualifications

Applying for SSDI is a complex process the requires a lot of information and documents. To qualify for SSDI, there are some specific requirements. The Social Security Administration (SSA) first needs to determine whether or not your medical condition qualifies as a disability under its guidelines which include:

  • Being unable to do the work you previously performed
  • Being unable to adjust to doing other work
  • Having a severe medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death

The SSA will also ask questions such as:

What If I Was Denied SSDI?

Being in a situation where you need SSDI benefits can be challenging and stressful enough. Finding out that you have been denied social security disability might feel frightening, but do your best to remain hopeful. If you were denied SSDI you can appeal the decision for another chance to be approved. In fact, most disability benefits claims are denied on the first attempt, particularly those who apply themselves without the assistance of a disability attorney. By enlisting the help of an experienced disability attorney, you can begin the appeal process with assistance. 

Why Was My SSDI Claim Denied? 

There are many reasons why the Social Security Administration might deny an SSDI application. Some of them may include:

  • Earning too much money
  • Failure to show medical proof
  • An error in medical evidence submission
  • Not following your doctor’s suggested treatments
  • The SSA is unable to reach you
  • Filing the incorrect claim type

The good news is that some of these reasons for denial can be reevaluated in the appeals process. An experienced attorney will understand the reasons for your denial and increase your chances of being awarded SSDI when you appeal. 

What Can I Do After My SSDI Claim Was Denied?

If your SSDI claim was denied, you can begin the appeal process. There are four levels of appeal:

  • Request for Reconsideration
  • Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge
  • Appeals Council Request for Review
  • Federal District Court review

It is not recommended to attempt an SSDI denial without the assistance of an experienced disability attorney. There is a considerable amount of paperwork, medical evidence, and communication that will be needed during the application or appeal process. No one should have to fight for the benefits they deserve alone. Having an attorney assist you with the disability process will increase your chances of being approved. Disability attorneys have a vast knowledge of the Social Security claims process as well as insights into the specific requirements to get an approval. 

Get Help Appealing SSDI Benefits with The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill

At the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill in Columbia, MO, we have years of experience assisting people just like you in the SSDI appeals process. Having practiced disability law for more than 30 years, we are experienced lawyers for social security disability, ready to help you with every step of the application process. Right now, we understand that you may feel very confused or you might feel like giving up, but please know that denial isn’t the end of the road. We know that a lot is riding on whether or not you get approved, and that’s why we want to do everything we can to help you get a favorable outcome. If you were denied social security disability benefits, contact us today for a free evaluation. 

You’ve worked hard all your life, and the last thing you wanted or expected was a medical condition that keeps you from work. While you were working deductions were taken from each paycheck and paid into the Social Security system. If you can’t work because of your health condition, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. The SSDI program is available to hard-working people that paid into the system and deserve financial relief.  So, how do you know if you are eligible for SSDI? 

What Qualifies As A Disability?

Social Security defines disability differently than other programs, and benefits are not payable for short-term disability or partial disability. Under Social Security, a disability exists when: :

  • You are unable to do the work that you did before.
  • Social Security determines that you are unable to adjust to doing other work. 
  • Your severe medical condition is expected to last at least one year or will result in death.

How Does Social Security Decide If I Am Disabled?

Social Security uses a step by step process to determine if someone qualifies for disability benefits. 

1. Are you working? 

If you are working and earn more than an average of $1,260 per month, you likely won’t be considered disabled. 

2. Is your condition severe? 

For at least 12 months, your condition must limit your ability to do basic work significantly.

3. Is your condition found on the list of disabling conditions?

Social Security keeps an updated list of medical conditions that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from working. 

4. Can you do the work you did previously?

If your health condition prevents you from doing the same type of work you did in the past, you may be eligible for SSDI. 

5. Can you do another type of work?

If your health condition limits you from performing other types of work, you may be eligible for SSDI.

 

If you think you might be eligible for SSDI, the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill can assist you with an application. Call us for a free consultation. 

 

Medical Conditions That Qualify for SSDI

As of 2020, the list of medical conditions that qualify for SSDI have been updated and include the following:

  • Cancer
  • Musculoskeletal problems such as a back injury
  • Kidney disease and genitourinary problems
  • Cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure or coronary artery disease
  • Digestive tract problems such as IBD or liver disease
  • Senses and speech issues such as vision and hearing loss
  • Skin disorders such as dermatitis
  • Respiratory illnesses such as COPD or asthma
  • Immune system disorders such as HIV/AIDS, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Neurological disorders such as MS, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, or epilepsy
  • Mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, or autism
  • Various syndromes such as Marfan Syndrome and Sjogren’s Syndrome
  • Hematological disorders such as disorders of bone marrow 

A more in-depth list for adults and children is available on the Social Security website. 

How Many Work Credits Are Needed?

The other main criteria that determine your eligibility for SSDI are whether or not you earned enough work credits during your employment. The number of credits required varies from person to person and more specific guidelines can be found on the Social Security Administration website. Your work credits and qualifications will be determined on an individual basis.

Speak with a Disability Attorney

If you can no longer work due to a medical condition, you may be entitled to compensation through Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. Let the Social Security Disability attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill help with your claim for disability benefits by contacting us today. 

If you need SSI or SSDI during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the Law Office of Karen Kraus Bill can still assist you! 

Get a Free Consultation

At the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill, we are offering free consultations by phone to help you get relief during the coronavirus pandemic. Just because you aren’t able to leave your house, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be able to take care of important things like getting your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) benefits. In a time where the economy is feeling unstable, and the world around us is in a state of uncertainty, we are prepared to help you get the income you need. 

Want to Learn More About Social Security Benefits?

If you are considering applying for SSDI or SSI, but not sure if you are eligible or where to start, keep reading for more information.

Can I Apply for SSDI?

If you are under the age of 65 and have earned a particular number of work credits, you may qualify as a candidate for Social Security Disability Income. You may be eligible for SSDI if you:

  • Are under the age of 65
  • Worked 5 out of the last 10 years
  • Have a mental or physical impairment

Federal law defines disabled as someone unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

Can I Apply for SSI?

Supplemental Security Income may be one of the most applicable social security benefits during the pandemic outbreak of COVID-19. You could qualify if you:

  • Have a limited income 
  • Have less than $2,000 in assets as an individual OR
  • Have less than $3,000 in assets as a couple

Individuals of any age, children included, can apply for SSI if they are disabled and have limited to no income or resources. Individuals over the age of 65 can qualify, regardless of their medical condition. 

Need to Appeal an SSI or SSDI Denial?

If you have already applied for SSI or SSDI yourself and have been denied, The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill can assist you during the appeals process. There is only a short time frame available to appeal, so as soon as you know you have been denied, contact us for a free phone consultation. Applications can often be denied due to mistakes, misinformation, or unsuccessful attempts to collect necessary medical information when an individual attempts to apply on their own. Having a skilled attorney who is experienced in handling disability law cases can mean the difference between being approved and denied.

Call Karen Kraus Bill Today

If you are ready to schedule a virtual consultation, visit our website to fill out the contact form or call us at 573-875-5200.