SSDI (Social Security Disability) Basics

Disability is something most people don’t like to think about. But the chances that you’ll become disabled probably are greater than you realize. Studies show that a 20-year-old worker has a 1-in-4 chance of becoming disabled before reaching full retirement age. For specific information about your situation, you should speak with a Social Security Representative. …

When Should I Apply For Benefits? You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. Processing an application for disability benefits can take three to five months. To apply for disability benefits, you’ll need to complete an application for Social Security benefits. What Do I Need? Your Social Security number Your birth …

Social Security will review your application to make sure you meet some basic requirements for disability benefits. They will check whether you worked enough years to qualify. Also, they will evaluate any current work activities. If you meet these requirements, they will process your application and forward your case to the Disability Determination Services office …

The state uses a five-step evaluation process, in a set order, to decide if you’re disabled. Are you working? If you’re working and your earnings average more than a certain amount each month, you generally won’t be considered to be disabled. The amount (referred to as “substantial gainful activity”) changes each year. If you’re not …