Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed to provide crucial financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disabling condition. However, not every illness or injury will qualify for SSDI. If you live in Chicago or anywhere else in Illinois and are unable to work because of your health, understanding which conditions meet the criteria is essential before you begin your SSDI application.
At GCC Law Firm, we focus solely on helping people with disabilities obtain the SSDI benefits they deserve. We are committed to providing dedicated legal representation, whether you are just beginning the application process or seeking an appeal after a denial. When you contact GCC Law Firm, we will use our experience and in-depth knowledge of the SSDI process to fight for your rights every step of the way.
SSDI Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for SSDI, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has established several requirements. First, your medical condition must be severe enough to prevent you from engaging in what the SSA refers to as “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. Additionally, you must have accumulated sufficient work credits through your past employment. In general, most SSDI applicants need 40 credits, with a maximum of four credits awarded per year worked.
Types of Disabilities That Qualify for Disability Benefits
A wide range of physical and mental conditions may qualify for SSDI benefits. Here’s a breakdown of some of the major categories of conditions that could meet SSDI’s strict requirements:
Physical Disabilities
Physical impairments can severely limit your ability to perform daily tasks or hold down a job. Examples of qualifying physical conditions include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders, such as arthritis, back problems, or amputations.
- Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or cerebral palsy.
- Cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure or coronary artery disease.
- Respiratory illnesses, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or severe asthma.
Mental Health Disorders
Mental health conditions often interfere with a person’s ability to maintain stable employment. The SSA recognizes a variety of mental health impairments, including:
- Mood disorders, like depression or bipolar disorder.
- Anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Schizophrenia and other serious psychotic disorders.
- Intellectual disabilities or developmental disorders.
Chronic Health Conditions
Chronic illnesses may not always be visible, but their impact on your life and work can be significant. These long-term conditions may qualify for SSDI:
- Diabetes and its severe complications.
- Chronic kidney disease that may require dialysis.
- Autoimmune disorders, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome.
Sensory Impairments
Individuals who have vision or hearing impairments may also qualify for SSDI. These impairments include:
- Blindness or severe vision impairment.
- Deafness or significant hearing loss.
- Speech impairments that affect communication.
Navigating the SSDI Application Process
Applying for SSDI benefits can be a daunting and time-consuming process. For many people, it feels overwhelming to gather the necessary documentation while dealing with a disability. That’s where GCC Law Firm can step in to assist you. From the moment you contact us, we handle all the necessary steps of your claim, ensuring that your application is as complete and compelling as possible.
We gather medical records, test results, and any other relevant documentation from your healthcare providers. It’s critical to have thorough medical evidence, including records from doctors, hospitals, and therapists, to prove the severity of your condition. We also review your full work history to ensure you have accumulated enough work credits to qualify.
The SSA may request that you undergo a medical evaluation to further assess your condition. This evaluation, conducted by an SSA-approved healthcare provider, plays a key role in the SSA’s decision-making process. We prepare you for this evaluation by explaining what to expect and advising you on how to communicate the severity of your impairment effectively to the examiner.
What Happens After You Submit Your Application?
Once your SSDI application is submitted, the SSA will review your case. This process can take several months, but GCC Law Firm will remain in contact with you throughout, providing updates on your claim and assisting with any requests for additional information from the SSA. If your initial application is denied, do not lose hope—many claims are denied on the first try.
You have the right to appeal a denial, and the appeals process includes several stages, such as reconsideration and a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The experienced legal team at GCC Law Firm will work closely with you to present your case at every stage of the appeals process, giving you the best possible chance of success.
Get the Help You Need
Understanding which conditions qualify for SSDI and how to navigate the application process is critical to securing the financial support you need. While the SSDI process can be complex and overwhelming, being informed and prepared can make all the difference. At GCC Law Firm, we are ready to assist you in your efforts to obtain SSDI benefits and achieve greater financial stability despite your disability. If you are in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois and need help with your disability claim, contact us today to start the process.