Disability Advocates Group is dedicated to protecting the rights of disabled individuals and their families throughout Southern California. If you are seeking disability benefits, you need the powerful representation we provide. Our disability lawyers are well-versed in the eligibility requirements under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. When you consult us, we will leverage our skills and resources to help you obtain the benefits you deserve.
SSDI Eligibility Requirements in Southern California
SSDI is only available to disabled individuals between the age of 18 and 65 who have paid into the Social Security system through income tax deductions. In order to qualify for the program, there are work credit requirements based on factors such as your age, how long you have been working, and how recently you worked. Generally, the older you are, the more work credits you need to qualify for SSDI. If you haven’t worked long enough to qualify for SSDI, you might be able to obtain disability benefits under the SSI program.
In addition, in order to qualify for SSDI, you must demonstrate that you became disabled before you date last insured. Your date last insured is the last day you are covered under the SSDI program is generally calculated to be about 5 years from the day you last worked.
SSI Requirements in Southern California
SSI is provided to those who are disabled, blind and over the age of 65. In order to qualify for this program, you do not have to demonstrate that you worked or paid into the Social Security system. Instead, the Social Security Administration will perform a “means test” to determine if you qualify based on you and your family’s current income and assets.
SSI is only available to those who have limited assets: $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a married couple. Certain assets are not included in the SSI asset limit, such as a home that is a primary residence or one motor vehicle. In short, if your assets exceed these limits, you are ineligible for SSI.
Medical Eligibility
While the technical requirements for SSDI and SSI differ greatly, the medical eligibility requirements are the same for both programs. For both programs, you must demonstrate that you have a permanent disability, which is one that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. In order to demonstrate that you have a medical impairment, you will need to provide strong supporting medical documentation. In addition, you may be required to attend one or more independent consultative exams.
The best way to ensure that you meet the medical eligibility requirements is to consult Disability Advocates Group. We will work closely with you and your medical providers to produce the appropriate medical documentation to the Social Security Administration. If your application for benefits is denied because you did not meet the medical eligibility requirements, we can help you file a disability appeal. You should know that filing an appeal is complicated and you must follow each step of the process in order.
At some point, you may be required to attend a disability hearing, which makes it crucial to have the compassionate representation that we provide. We will always stand by you and fight tirelessly to protect your rights.
Contact Our Experienced Los Angeles Disability Attorney
If you are seeking disability benefits, don’t go it alone. At Disability Advocates Group, our mission is to make a difference in the lives of disabled individuals and their loved ones. Our legal team can help guide you through the claims process. When you partner with us, we will make the Social Security system work for you.
Our experienced disability lawyers will explain all the technical and medical eligibility requirements for disability benefits and work closely with you to make sure your application is accurate and thorough. Ultimately, working with our experienced disability lawyer can increase the likelihood of obtaining the benefits you need and deserve. Please contact our office today for a free evaluation of your case.
Contact Our Office