Social Security Disability helps those who are unable to work due to a serious, long-term medical condition. While some illnesses happen infrequently, causing periods of more pronounced limitations, these conditions will likely not qualify for disability benefits. Although you can always apply, the Social Security Administration (SSA) often denies applicants who do not meet basic eligibility requirements.
At Dayes Law Firm, our disability lawyers are ready to review your situation to determine if you are eligible for disability benefits in a free legal consultation.
Does the SSA Offer Benefits for Short-Term Illnesses?
The SSA offers disability benefits only to those with a long-term illness. It must be shown that your medical condition prevents you from being able to work for 12 months or longer or expected to result in death.
One of the greatest concerns with trying to obtain disability benefits is showing how your illness does not allow you to work for a long period of time. If your illness comes and goes, or happens infrequently, it is even more complicated to show the SSA that you are unable to work long-term to qualify for disability.
Eligibility for Medical Impairments
Aside from showing your limitations to work, your medical impairment must meet the criteria listed in the SSA’s Blue Book. Meeting one of the listings and having the proper medical documentation to prove your condition could increase your chances at qualifying for disability benefits.
If you failed to meet the criteria or your illness is not listed in the Blue Book, you would need to show that you cannot work by taking a residual functional capacity (RFC) evaluation. This evaluation would document your ability to do several daily tasks. You may be eligible for disability if your RFC shows that you suffer from a severe illness that leaves you impaired enough to not be able to obtain or retain a job.
What If I Can Work Part-Time?
If you are working on a part-time basis, you may not qualify for disability benefits if you earn too much money. You must earn less than the current substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. If you earn more than the monthly limit before applying, the SSA may say that you are able to work despite your limitations.
Get Help With Your Disability Claim Today
If you need help applying for disability benefits, a Phoenix Social Security Disability lawyer from our firm is prepared to help advocate for your best interests. We know what it takes to get approved by the SSA and are willing to file an appeal on your behalf if your disability claim is denied for some reason.
Our consultations are 100 percent free.There is no risk in calling our firm and no obligation to hire us. If we do represent you, you do not pay us any upfront fees unless we help you obtain disability benefits.
Give us a call at 1-800-503-2000 for help with your disability claim.