When an accident or sudden injury makes working impossible, Social Security disability can provide the benefits and health care services you need to get by. Unfortunately, the application system can be extremely difficult and confusing, with a high proportion of applications rejected outright, making it difficult to determine whether you even have a strong case.

Eligibility requirements for Social Security disability are based primarily on two criteria: the nature of your disability and your work history.

Are You Totally Disabled?

Can you work in your previous profession, even with your injury? Can you work in another industry at all? Social Security disability will not pay for a partial disability or temporary situations, so your attorney will have to show your condition will prevent you from working for at least a year or until your death. The Social Security Administration maintains a list of pre-approved medical conditions that automatically qualify you for benefits. Obviously, you'll have the strongest case if you've been diagnosed with one of those health issues, but you can still receive benefits if they determine your illness or injury is severe enough.

Do You Have a Work History?

As an insurance program, Social Security disability benefits are restricted to those who have paid into the system with payroll taxes from a qualifying job. Every American worker is awarded a certain number of work credits for income earned, with a maximum of four per year. The total number of credits you need to qualify varies significantly depending on your age, but most applicants will need 40 to qualify, with 20 earned in the previous 10 years.

The attorneys at Woodlawn Law Offices have over 25 years of experience helping people throughout O'Fallon, MO, navigate the complexities of the Social Security disability process. Visit their website to learn more about how they can help you get the benefits you need, or call (636) 240-6667 to speak with an attorney today.