How to apply for Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security is a government-based program that provides financial assistance to individuals suffering from disabling medical conditions and limited resources. It also provides benefits to the families of disabled workers.

There are two types of Social Security disability programs: the Social Security Disability Insurance program (SSDI) and the Supplemental Security Income program (SSI). In this post, we focus primarily on the SSDI program.

An experienced social security attorney in New Jersey will help you throughout the application process and assist you in getting your claim for benefits approved.  A disability lawyer will ensure that all the paperwork is complete, including all required forms and medical evidence, and file everything before applicable deadlines.

What is an SSDI program?

The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program provides monetary assistance to those who have a qualifying condition. Many individuals have one or more medical issues, but some of those problems may be incapacitating and limit their capacity to function efficiently in daily life or find employment.

If you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to work and participate, you may be eligible to apply for Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits.

Various physical and mental health conditions can qualify for disability benefits. The Social Security Administration has published a list of qualifying medical conditions and the medical criteria needed to assess them, referred to popularly as “The Blue Book.”

The Blue Book describes numerous illnesses, such as arthritis and various musculoskeletal problems, various types of cancer, bipolar disorder, sadness, other mental health and personality disorders, heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and a number of additional conditions. 

Several disabling conditions are not expressly listed in the Blue Book but may still be eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits. Any person with a disorder that meets SSA’s definition of disability may be entitled to receive benefits. Below, we discuss SSA’s definition of disability and other eligibility criteria.

How can an attorney help to file a disability claim?The SSA application process is complicated and time-consuming. If you need legal assistance, please contact the San Diego Disability Lawyer for a free case review. We will work hard to get you the benefits you deserve.

Leave a Comment