Definition of Disability

Understanding ssdi Eligibility

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance, your condition must align with the Social Security Administration's (SSA) stringent definition of disability. This includes having a severe medical condition that impedes basic work-related activities, being unable to perform previous work, and the SSA's determination that you can't adjust to other work due to your medical conditions. Additionally, your disability should be expected to last at least a year or result in death. This process is more complicated than you think, and seeking the help of an experienced attorney can prevent your claim from being denied.

Your condition must fit the SSA's strict legal definition of disability.

SSA maintains a list of severe medical conditions, which you can find here.

Duration of Disability

The disability must have lasted or be expected to last for at least 12 months, or result in death. Short-term or partial disabilities do not qualify.

Impact on Work Capability

Eligibility requires that the disability significantly interferes with basic work-related activities. The SSA must determine that you cannot adjust to other types of work due to your medical condition.

The Burden of Proof

In Social Security Disability cases, the responsibility is on the person applying to prove that they are disabled according to the Social Security Administration's standards. This means providing enough medical evidence and information to show that their condition seriously affects their ability to work. It's a detailed process that requires clear evidence and often the help of legal experts to successfully meet the strict requirements.