Do I Qualify?
While you may be unable to work, that alone won’t guarantee you Social Security disability benefits. Social Security is a big government agency. They use a complex legal system to decide who deserves benefits, and you can only win benefits if you meet their strict definition of “disabled.”
At Makris Law Firm, we’ll help you determine whether you do. The earlier you call us, the better we can help you. Contact us to discuss your disability case. Hablamos Español.
To receive Social Security Disability benefits, you must be eligible to apply and you must meet the definition of disabled.
Am I eligible to apply for Social Security?
There are two types of Social Security Benefits: SSDI and SSI.
SSDI
The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program pays benefits to you and certain family members if you meet three criteria: 1) You are disabled, 2) You have earned enough work credits through Social Security taxes, and 3) As of the date you became disabled, you must have worked under Social Security at least 5 of the last 10 years.
SSI
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program for disabled adults who have limited income and resources.
What does being disabled mean?
Under Social Security rules, you’re only considered disabled if a medical condition or injury is expected to keep you from working for at least one full year (or result in death). The disability can be a physical condition, a mental condition, or a combination of problems.
If you’re unable to work, it’s important you schedule regular medical appointments and gather enough documentation to prove your case to Social Security.
In general, Social Security considers you disabled if:
- You cannot do work that you did before;
- You cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s); and
- Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.
Contact us today about your disability case. Our experience can make all the difference.