Social Security disability insurance is a vital government program available to some workers who can no longer earn a living due to illness or a debilitating injury. This insurance program provides cash benefits to help make ends meet, along with access to medical treatment if your disability continues to affect you. To qualify, applicants must meet very stringent criteria, which include work requirements and a determination of total disability.

The Work Requirements

As an insurance program, Social Security disability is intended to support those who have paid into the system with their payroll taxes. The SSA gives work credits based on your annual income, with a maximum of four credits earned per year. The number of credits required to qualify for benefits varies based on your age and other factors, but in general, you will need 40 credits, at least 20 of which have been earned in the past 10 years. The younger you are, though, the fewer credits you need, so talk to an attorney if you're afraid you don't meet the work requirements.

Total Long-Term Disability

Social Security disability is reserved for those who can't earn a living in their previous profession and likely won't be able to work in another field due to their medical condition. However, they won't pay for temporary or partial disability, so you must show your condition is likely to continue for at least a year or until your death. The SSA maintains a list of medical conditions they consider so severe they automatically qualify for disability. Everyone else will have to show their condition is equal to something on the list.

For a quarter century, the professionals at Woodlawn Law Offices have helped O'Fallon, MO, residents navigate the difficulties of the Social Security disability application process. They will do everything possible to get you the benefits you need. Learn more about their reputation for honest, effective service online, or schedule a consultation by calling (636) 240-6667 today.