Social Security Disability Information

Social Security Disability Benefits Information

What Is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program that provides benefits to individuals who are unable to work full time due to a disabling condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months. SSDI is based on your work history. If you are disabled but you have not worked enough to receive SSDI, you may be eligible for SSI.

What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs based program that pays benefits to adults and children who have low income and few resources and who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.

Learn more about Types of Social Security Disability Benefits

Do I Qualify For Social Security Disability Benefits?

The Social Security Administration defines “disability” as follows:

“The inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”

In determining whether or not you are disabled, the Social Security Administration uses a 5-step process.

The process is:

Step 1. Are you working?

» If you are working and your earnings are more than a certain amount each month, then you are not disabled.

Step 2. Is your condition “severe”?

» If your condition does not interfere with basic work-related activities, then you are not disabled.

Step 3. Is your condition on the List of Impairments?

» The List of Impairments contains medical conditions that are so severe that they automatically mean that you are disabled. If your condition is not on the list or if your condition is not equal in severity to a medical condition that is on the list, then you are not disabled.

Step 4. Can you do your past work?

» Your medical condition must prevent you from doing your past work. If your condition does not interfere with your ability to do the work you did previously, then your claim will be denied.

Step 5. Can you do other work?

» If you cannot do your past work, then the SSA will see if you are able to adjust to other work. Your medical condition must prevent you from doing other work. If you can do other work, you are not disabled.

Fill out our Free SSD Evaluation Form To See If You Qualify

How Do I Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits?

There are a number of ways to begin your Social Security disability claim. If your claim is for SSDI only, you can file on the Social Security Administration’s website at www.ssa.gov. If your claim is for SSI only or for SSDI and SSI, you must either call the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 or go to your local Social Security Field office. If you have questions about the Social Security disability application process, contact Mike Morse Law Firm, 855-MIKE-WINS for a free consultation.

Learn More About the Social Security Disability Application Process

What If I Am Denied Social Security Disability Benefits?

The Social Security Administration routinely denies disabled individuals the disability benefits that they deserve. If your application for SSDI or SSI is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision within 60 days. Having a Social Security disability attorney handle your appeal greatly enhances the probability that you will win. Our firm is deeply committed to helping individuals receive the benefits that they have been denied. If the Social Security Administration has denied your claim for disability benefits, contact our qualified disability attorneys.

The Social Security Disability Hearings and Appeals Process Explained

Have Social Security Disability Benefits Quwstions? Our Michigan Disability Lawyers Can Help

Please call our Michigan Social Security Disability Lawyers today at 855-MIKE-WINS or e-mail us to learn how we can help.