Disability benefits from the government include the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and the Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) programs. A free consultation with an SSDI attorney in Knoxville, TN, is wise to ensure you get the full picture of how this benefits system works. You may also need their help with applying or an appeal if you are denied benefits. The following information will cover the five basic eligibility requirements for obtaining SSDI.
Work Requirements
Applicants must have worked in a job for at least five of the last ten years of their lives, but it does not have to be consecutive years. Workers between the ages of 24 and 30 must have worked for at least half the time between your 21st birthday and the time you become disabled. If you are disabled before the age of 24, but have worked for at least one year and five months prior to your disability, you meet the basic work requirements for SSDI.
Durational Requirement
The durational requirement for SSDI eligibility relates to how long your disability is expected to last. The minimum requirement is 12 months, or if your disability will result in death.
Age Requirement
You have to be under 65 years of age to be eligible for SSDI. The main reason for this is that most people who have worked in their lives retire and get Social Security at this age.
Medical Evidence
The official medical evidence provided by your doctor should support your claim. Medical evidence will be required, and it has to corroborate the fact that your injuries or illness prevent you from working. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a list of mental and physical impairments that qualify applicants for any form of disability benefit. It includes the criteria needed to be approved for benefits. An SSDI attorney in Knoxville, TN, can explain how this works to you.
Job Performance
If you are unable to perform work that is considered a gainful activity, you may be eligible for SSDI. If you are able to perform any kind of gainful work activity, the SSA will determine your eligibility for benefits.
The laws and guidelines for SSDI eligibility can be ambiguous, complex, and confusing for most people. Since some factors are up to the SSA to decide in these cases, hiring an attorney is a smart thing to do. Contact Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC to get the legal help you need. Visit Drdisabilitylaw.com for more information!
