8 Qualifications for Social Security

Disability BenefitsAre you eligible?

1. Your condition is severe.

A severe condition is one that interferes with basic, work-related activities. If your condition does not keep you from doing basic tasks, the Social Security Administration will not consider it a disability.

2. Your condition is on the list of disabling conditions.

If your disability is found on the Social Security Administration’s list of medical conditions, you will automatically be considered disabled. Here are a few examples of the conditions on their list:Spine disordersAmputations Injuries from burnsMusculoskeletal system disordersMajor joint dysfunctions

3. You make fewer than $1,070 a month.

If you are still working and make fewer than $1,070 a month because of your disability, you may qualify for disability benefits. Monthly income rates can change based on the year. For 2014, it’s $1,070.

4. You can’t continue the same work.

If your condition is severe but it’s not on the list of medical conditions, the SSA must determine if it interferes with your ability to do the work you’ve been doing at your job. If it does, they’ll proceed to the next step (found on the next slide).

5. You can’t do other type of work.

If you can’t continue working at your current job, but you can do other tasks at a different job, your claim will be denied. However, if you can’t adjust to other work, your claim will be approved.

6. Your disability will last a year.

If your disability will last for one year or more, or if it will result in death, your claim will be approved.

7. You’ve worked long enough under Social Security.You must have worked long

enough (and recently enough) under Social Security. For 2014, you get one credit for every $1,200 of income you receive.

The amount of work credits you need to qualify for disability benefits depends on your age when you become disabled. Most people need 40 credits, with 20 of them being earned in the last 10 years.

8. You are in a special situation.

The following situations may qualify you for Social Security disability benefits:Disabled childBlind or low visionLoss of spouse who workedWounded veteran

Get Help if You’ve Been Denied

If the Social Security Administration has denied what you feel is a valid claim for receiving Social Security disability benefits, call Craig Swapp & Associates today.

We can provide you with a Social Security disability attorney that is ready and willing help you get the benefits you deserve.

To get in touch with a Social Security disability attorney today, contact us by calling 800-404-9000 or by visiting craigswapp.com.