Understanding Technical Eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (SSDI)
Navigating the process of applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding technical eligibility requirements. While the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates both medical and non-medical criteria, meeting the technical eligibility standards is crucial for securing these vital benefits. If you are unsure if you meet the technical eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits, our team at Berger and Green can help.
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The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers several types of benefits to eligible individuals. These include retirement benefits, disability benefits, survivor benefits, and supplemental security income (SSI). Disability benefits assist individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) offers financial aid to low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled. Each program has different eligibility requirements. This blog post will discuss the technical eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
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Contact Us Now For HelpWhat is Technical Eligibility?
Technical eligibility refers to the non-medical requirements that you must meet to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. These requirements include work history, earnings, and legal status. Understanding these criteria is an essential step in the application process. If you do not meet the technical requirements, you will be denied benefits, despite your disabling medical condition.
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Start A Free EvaluationWork Credits and Earnings
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must have a sufficient work history and have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. Work credits are earned based on annual income, and the number of credits required depends on your age at the time of disability.
Typically, applicants need to have earned a certain number of work credits within a specified period leading up to their disability. However, younger applicants may qualify with fewer credits. The SSA provides detailed guidelines on work credits and earnings thresholds, which applicants should review carefully.
A simple explanation of required work credits is that you need to have worked 5 of the last 10 years to be eligible. Younger applicants for benefits may need fewer work credits.
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In addition to earning enough work credits, applicants must have worked for a certain duration under Social Security-covered employment. The SSA considers the applicant’s recent work history to determine if they meet this requirement.
A simple explanation of required work credits is that you need to have worked 5 of the last 10 years to be eligible. Younger applicants for benefits may need fewer work credits.
Recent Work Test
The recent work test evaluates whether applicants have worked recently enough and for a sufficient duration under Social Security-covered employment. This test considers the number of years worked and the recency of employment, ensuring that applicants have been actively participating in the workforce.
If you have not worked in the last 10 years you may not pass the recent work test which is required to receive Social Security Disability benefits.
Legal Status and Citizenship
Applicants must also meet certain legal requirements to receive Social Security Disability benefits. They must be either U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens with lawful permanent residency status. Non-citizens must provide documentation to prove their eligibility.
Other Non-Medical Criteria
Beyond work history and legal status, other non-medical factors may affect eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits. These may include the applicant’s age, marital status, and contact information. An error on your application for benefits could result in a denial of benefits.
How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits involves completing an application and providing supporting documentation. Applicants should gather medical records, work history details, and any other relevant information before starting the application process. If you are feeling overwhelmed by this process, the lawyers at Berger and Green can file your application for benefits.
Eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
If you do not meet the technical requirements for Social Security Disability benefits, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a needs-based program designed to provide financial assistance to low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled, regardless of their work history. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI eligibility is based on financial need rather than work history or earnings. To qualify for SSI, you must meet specific income and resource limits set by the Social Security Administration. If you find yourself ineligible for Social Security Disability benefits due to technical requirements, exploring SSI as an alternative option may provide the support you need. The team at Berger and Green can help you understand the eligibility requirements for SSI in greater detail.
Conclusion
Navigating the technical eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability benefits is a critical step in the application process. By understanding the work credits, earnings thresholds, recent work test, legal status, and other non-medical criteria, you can improve your chances of approval. Seeking guidance from an attorney at Berger and Green can also provide valuable support throughout the application process.
If you have been denied benefits, contact the lawyers of Berger and Green for a free case evaluation.