Disability Requirements

The SSA maintains a list of medical conditions, known as the Blue Book, which qualify for disability benefits if specific criteria are met. This list covers a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular conditions, respiratory illnesses, mental disorders, and more. You can find the complete list and detailed criteria on the SSA's official website.

If your condition is not listed in the Blue Book, you can still qualify for benefits if you can prove that your condition is as severe as those listed and significantly limits your ability to perform basic work-related activities. To see if your condition qualifies, feel free to visit our full Medical Condition List.

Your medical condition must be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. This requirement ensures that SSDI benefits are reserved for individuals with long-term disabilities. SSDI is not intended for short-term or partial disabilities.

Medical Evidence: You must already have medical evidence from doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers to support your claim. This includes medical records, lab results, and treatment history.

For a quick and free evaluation or consultation about your medical conditions, please visit our: Disability Evaluation Form.

To qualify for SSDI, you must have accumulated a sufficient number of work credits. These credits are based on your total yearly wages or self-employment income. You can earn up to four credits per year. The number of credits needed depends on your age when you become disabled. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. However, younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.

To see if you have the required credits, visit: www.ssa.gov/myaccount/

The SSA sets a monthly earnings limit to determine if your work is considered substantial gainful activity. If you're earning more than this limit, you may not be eligible for disability benefits. As of 2024, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 for blind individuals.

Once you've applied for SSDI, your application will go through a five-step evaluation process:

• Step 1: Are you working? If you're earning more than the SGA limit, you may be disqualified.

• Step 2: Is your condition severe? Your condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities.

• Step 3: Does your condition meet or equal a listing in the Blue Book? If yes, you're considered disabled. If not, the evaluation continues.

• Step 4: Can you perform your past work? If you can still do your previous job, you may not be considered disabled.

• Step 5: Can you do any other type of work? If you're unable to do any other work due to your condition, you may be deemed disabled.

If your claim is denied, don't lose hope. You have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process has four levels: Reconsideration, Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge, Review by the Appeals Council, and Federal Court Review.

Navigating the SSDI application process can be complex and overwhelming. It's essential to understand the specific requirements and regulations set by the SSA to increase your chances of approval. 

If you're unsure about your eligibility or need assistance with your application, consider consulting with a qualified Social Security disability attorney who can provide guidance and support throughout the process. Call us right now at 787-344-9219 to coordinate a free  appointment with our Social Security Attorneys.

By meeting the specific medical, duration, work credits, and income requirements, and successfully navigating the disability determination process, you can secure the financial assistance you need to manage your disabling condition.

We can also assist Veterans who have a disability rating from the VA