Am I Considered Disabled for SSD?
The definition of a disability at the Social Security Administration (SSA) is based on your inability to work for a long period of time, usually 12 months or more (more on that below). The SSA considers a person disabled and possibly eligible for SSD / SSDI benefits if you:
- Aren’t working, OR you’re earning less-than $1,130 each month
- A physical or psychological condition is so severe that it interferes with work-related activities that must be performed as part of your job
- You’re now unable to do the work that you could do before becoming disabled
- You’re unable to perform other types of work that your background may have prepared you to perform
PLEASE NOTE: Your own unique situation might not be reflected in the criteria above, and you might still be eligible for SSD / SSDI benefits even if you don’t fulfill all those conditions. Contact us to help you determine if you qualify—our experts will be able to guide you through the process.
As for the amount of time of your disability, you will need to show the SSA:
- Your disability is expected to last at least one year, or that it is expected to be life ending
- You can’t perform any work which would be categorized as “substantial gainful activity,” or stated another way, you can’t work 8 hours a day, 5 days a week on a consistent basis
ALSO NOTE: You should apply as soon as possible, though, because there is a time gap between applying and actually receiving benefits.
Please contact us as soon as you’re ready for us to start helping you receive the benefits you’re entitled to by law. This is all we do.
Do You Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?