Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with a physical disability. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific eligibility criteria, and understanding those requirements is key to successfully getting the benefits you deserve. 

If you have a physical condition that prevents you from working, I’m here to help you navigate the SSDI process and make sense of it all. Contact Grech Law Firm in Utica to schedule a free consultation.

What Is SSDI?

SSDI is a federal program that provides monthly financial benefits to individuals who can no longer work due to a disabling physical condition. These benefits help cover essential living expenses, medical treatments, and other necessary costs.

Unlike Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is need-based, SSDI is available only to individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system. In other words, it’s based on your work history and the amount of Social Security taxes you’ve contributed over time.

Qualifying for SSDI with a Physical Disability

The SSA has strict requirements you’ll need to meet to qualify for SSDI, especially when it comes to physical disabilities. These requirements include:

  • Work Credits: You must have earned enough work credits through previous employment. The number of credits needed varies depending on your age, but generally, you need to have worked for five out of the last ten years.
  • Severe Physical Disability: Your disability must be severe enough to prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). This means you’re unable to earn more than a certain amount per month ($1,470 in 2024 for non-blind individuals).
  • Long-Term Condition: Your condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal. Short-term conditions won’t qualify for SSDI benefits.
  • Medical Documentation: You’ll need to provide detailed medical records to prove that your physical condition meets the SSA’s definition of disability.

Common Physical Disabilities That Qualify for SSDI

Many physical conditions can qualify you for SSDI. The SSA has a listing of impairments, commonly known as the “Blue Book,” which includes conditions that, if severe enough, automatically qualify for SSDI benefits. Some of the most common physical disabilities include:

  • Musculoskeletal Disorders: Back problems, spinal injuries, arthritis, or any condition that limits mobility or causes significant pain.
  • Cardiovascular Conditions: Heart conditions such as coronary artery disease or heart failure that affect your ability to perform daily activities.
  • Respiratory Disorders: Conditions like COPD, chronic asthma, or other lung diseases that make it difficult to breathe and limit physical activity.
  • Neurological Disorders: Issues such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, or Parkinson’s disease that impair motor skills, coordination, and overall functionality.
  • Chronic Pain: Severe and chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) that make it impossible to work.

Even if your condition isn’t listed in the Blue Book, you may still qualify by showing that your disability prevents you from doing any type of work.

The Importance of Medical Documentation

One of the most critical aspects of your SSDI application is your medical documentation. The SSA uses this to determine whether your condition qualifies as a disability. When applying, you’ll need to provide comprehensive medical records, including:

  • A precise diagnosis of your condition
  • Records of all treatments, including medication, surgeries, or therapies
  • Statements from your healthcare providers regarding your inability to work
  • Test results such as X-rays, MRIs, or lab reports that support your diagnosis

Without thorough medical evidence, getting approved for SSDI is much harder, and many applicants run into trouble because of this.

What Happens If Your SSDI Application Is Denied?

If your SSDI application is denied, don’t panic. A denial doesn’t necessarily mean you’re not eligible for benefits. In fact, a large percentage of first-time applications are denied. But you have the right to appeal the decision, and many people win their cases during the appeals process.

Here’s what the appeals process looks like:

  1. Reconsideration: This is where another SSA representative reviews your application again.
  2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If you’re denied again, you can request a hearing, where you present your case to an ALJ.
  3. Appeals Council Review: If the ALJ denies your case, you can ask the SSA Appeals Council to review the decision.

I can assist you through every step of the appeals process, ensuring your case is as strong as possible.

How Justen Grech Helps You with Your SSDI Application

Navigating the SSDI process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I’ve helped many clients with physical disabilities get the SSDI benefits they need, and I can do the same for you. Here’s how I can assist:

  • Filing Your Initial Application: I’ll guide you through the entire process, making sure your application is thorough, accurate, and complete with all the necessary medical records.
  • Gathering Medical Evidence: I’ll work directly with your healthcare providers to obtain the documentation that strengthens your case.
  • Appealing a Denial: If your application is denied, I’ll handle the appeals process and represent you at hearings if needed.
  • Ongoing Support: From start to finish, I’ll be there to answer your questions, address your concerns, and keep you updated on your case.

I understand how significant these benefits are to your quality of life, and I’ll fight to make sure you get the help you deserve.

Get Help Today

If you have a physical disability and need assistance with your SSDI application, contact me today. I’m here to guide you through the process and take some of the weight off your shoulders so you can focus on your health. Contact Grech Law Firm to schedule a consultation, and let’s get started.