Do You Qualify for Social Security Disability? 5 Ways You Can Tell

Do you qualify for Social Security disability? The 40 million Americans who have a disability are often unable to work. Fortunately, those with disabilities can receive assistance through Social Security Disability programs. 

Disabled Americans may either qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) depending on their situation.

But if you have a disability, how do you know if you qualify for help? These guidelines will let you know if you qualify for disability. 

Your Condition is Considered Disabling

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides a list of disabilities that are severe enough to qualify for benefits. These physical and mental conditions can be so disabling that they keep you home from work. 

Here are just some of the categories of conditions that may qualify you for benefits: 

  • Heart conditions
  • Lung diseases
  • Cancers
  • Immune system illnesses
  • Mental health issues
  • Kidney disease
  • Vision, speech, or hearing impairments
  • Chronic syndromes
  • Skin conditions
  • Digestive disorders
  • Neurological disorders

Keep in mind that your condition does not have to be included on the SSA’s list in order for you to get disability. As long as you can prove that your physical or health condition significantly impacts your ability to work, you might be able to receive benefits. 

You Aren’t Engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

SGA is one of the most important guidelines for receiving disability. If you make more monthly income than a certain amount, then you are engaging in SGA.

As of 2019, the monthly SGA amount for those who are not visually impaired is set at $1220. For those who are blind, the monthly amount is $2040. 

Earning over these amounts means that you cannot qualify for benefits. However, if you are not able to engage in SGA, you can get approved for disability. 

You Can’t Work in Your Former Careers

Your previous work history has to justify that you are unable to work.

The SSA will look at the job description of your previous jobs, along with the challenges you faced working there, and how physically taxing the jobs were. The SSA will also consider what aspects of your disability hinder your ability to complete these jobs.

You Struggle with Daily Activities

The SSA will also want to see how your disability impacts your capability of getting through the day. You are more likely to be eligible for disability if you struggle with the activities of daily living (ADLs) like cleaning, cooking, walking, communicating, and getting dressed. 

You Are Unable to Do Any Type of Work

When examining your case, the SSA will determine if you can be placed in another type of job that is more accommodating to your impairment. If your disability prevents you from doing any other type of job at all, you may be qualified to receive disability. 

During this process, the SSA will take into account what type of disability you have, your age, your skills, as well as your education. This helps them figure out if you are capable of having another job. 

Find Out if You Qualify for Disability

Applying for disability can be challenging, especially if you are currently suffering from a medical condition. Hiring a lawyer to guide you through each step can make the process a lot less stressful. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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