HOW TO GET SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS

What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance covers workers against loss of wages due to severe, long term disability. This program is paid for by having FICA deducted from your paychecks while you are working.

In order to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be under full retirement age

• Have a severe disability that is expected to last at least one year or result in death

• Be unable to perform significant work (this means earning less than $1,550 (gross) per month due to a medical or mental impairment

• Have earned the necessary work credits by paying FICA over a certain period of time. (If you are below the age of 31, you will need fewer work credits to qualify)

Meeting all of the above requirements allows you to file an application for SSDI benefits but doesn't necessarily mean that you will be approved. The kicker comes with trying to prove that you meet Social Security's very narrow definition of "disability." Just because you believe you are disabled, or even if your doctor thinks you are disabled, doesn't mean that the Social Security Administration will agree.

About 3 out of 4 Social Security disability applications are denied and will require appeals to be approved. The appeal process is best handled by an advocate or attorney who understands Social Security disability law and the complicated process.

THE FORSYTHE FIRM in Huntsville will be delighted to speak to you about your SSDI claim or appeal. We talk for free with no pressure or obligation. And we will never ask you for a fee until we EARN it by getting your claim approved and recovering past due benefits for you. Reach us at (256) 799-0297. Yes, we will answer your questions for free. (256) 799-0297.