Qualifications & Eligibility For SSDI/SSI

Every year, millions of Americans suffer from disabling medical conditions that prevent them from being able to work. The resulting lack of income can result in serious financial challenges. If you have been diagnosed with a medical condition that prevents you from working, you may be entitled to Social Security benefits. Many different conditions qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

When deciding whether or not you are qualified and eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits, discussing your case with an experienced attorney is helpful. The Los Ageles-based Social Security Disability attorneys at Disability Advocates Group can help you understand whether you are eligible for benefits. If you are eligible for benefits, we can handle every aspect of your case, from completing a thorough application to appealing the denial of your claim when necessary. Contact Disability Advocates Group to schedule a free case evaluation and learn more about your legal rights. 

The Difference Between SSDI and SSI

SSDI and SSI represent two distinct federal programs that provide financial assistance to applicants who meet guidelines established by the federal government. Understanding their differences is important when determining whether you are qualified and eligible for the SSDI or SSI benefits program. SSDI requires an applicant to have enough work credits, while SSI benefits are granted based on financial needs. 

Due to the many differences between the two federal safety programs, an applicant can qualify for one of the two programs. SSDI is considered to be an entitlement program. As a result, SSDI benefits are available for any American who has worked enough and paid enough into the Social Security system. SSI benefits are provided to Americans with severely limited assets and resources. Applicants who qualify for SSI benefits will automatically receive Medicaid benefits. Many applicants apply for SSI benefits for the comprehensive healthcare benefits of Medicaid. 

Although each program has unique eligibility requirements, both programs require you to show that your medical condition meets Social Security’s disability standard. Doing so requires you to provide medical documentation that your specific condition meets the eligibility requirements for the Blue Book listing for the condition with which you’ve been diagnosed. 

Requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance SSDI in Southern California

SSDI is only available to disabled individuals between 18 and 65 who have paid into the Social Security system through income tax deductions. Work credit requirements are based on factors such as 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, to qualify for SSDI, you must demonstrate that you became disabled before your last insured date. Your date of last insured is the last day you are covered under the SSDI program and is generally calculated to be about five years from the day you last worked. 

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Requirements in Southern California 

SSI is provided to those who are disabled, blind, and over the age of 65. You do not have to demonstrate that you worked or paid into the Social Security system to qualify for this program. Instead, the Social Security Administration will perform a “means test” to determine if you qualify based on your and your family’s current income and assets.

SSI is only available to those with 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 for SSDI and SSI

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 expected to last at least one year or result in death. You will need to provide strong supporting medical documentation to demonstrate that you have a medical impairment. In addition, you may be required to attend one or more independent consultative exams.

The best way to ensure 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 for 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.

Am I Eligible for SSDI or SSI Benefits

If you are able to work, you won’t be able to qualify for SSDI benefits. SSDI benefits protect workers who are unable to work. If you have a qualifying medical diagnosis that will keep you out of work for at least 12 months, you won’t qualify for disability benefits. If you have been or will be out of work for 12 months but don’t qualify for SSDI benefits, you may still qualify for SSI. The medical qualifications for SSDI and SSI are similar. However, SSI is still a needs-based program. The best way to determine whether you’re entitled to benefits is to speak to an experienced attorney.

Contact a Social Security Disability Attorney Today

At Disability Advocates Group, we want to help you understand your legal rights and options. If you have any questions about whether you’re eligible for benefits, one of our skilled attorneys is here to answer your questions. We have a proven track record of successfully helping clients in the greater Los Angeles area apply for and obtain SSDI and SSI benefits. Contact Disability Advocates Group to schedule a free case evaluation.