If you’re unable to earn a living wage because you developed a disability, you may be entitled to government benefits. Since the application process for Social Security disability is relatively tedious, it’s wise to confirm eligibility before getting started. Although there are always exceptions, asking yourself the following questions can help determine whether submitting a claim will be worth the time and effort. 

4 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Applying for Disability Benefits

1. Do I Meet the Income Threshold?

Generally speaking, those who apply for disability benefits should be unable to work at all. However, if you can still do some work, it doesn’t necessarily bar you from applying—as long as your gross earnings are less than $1,220 per month as of 2019. 

2. What Is My Diagnosis, and What Is Its Prognosis?

You need to determine if you have a qualifying condition and if it is severe enough to keep you from working. Typically, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will only consider approving claimants whose disability is expected to keep them out of work for at least 12 months. 

3. Can I Work at All?

Even with a disability of appropriate severity, you may be denied benefits if you're still able to work in virtually any capacity. In other words, also if you’re unable to perform the work you used to do, the SSA is going to ask if you can do different kinds of work. If you have a condition that prevents you from performing physical labor, they may argue that you could still have jobs that are computer-based or allow you to work from home.

4. Do I Have Enough Work Credits?

To qualify for benefits, you must have accumulated 40 work credits, 20 of which you earned within the past ten years. For every $1,360 of wages you receive, you’ll get one credit, and you can acquire up to four credits per year. If you do not have these, your claim will often be denied unless there are extenuating circumstances, such as sudden and traumatic injury.

If you think you may be entitled to disability benefits, turn to Disability Claim Consultants. Serving individuals throughout NE and Western Iowa, this agency was founded in 2000, and their team has more than 40 years of combined experience navigating the claims process. Their certified reps take the stress out of applying for benefits—and submitting appeals. To reach out to a member of their team and start your disability claim, visit their website or call (402) 422-1000.