Disability benefits are not easy to qualify for. Therefore, it is going to be a challenging process. It could be frustrating and disappointing at times, but you should not give up. No doubt it is exhausting, but you know, no pain, no gain.
Social Security informs applicants that they will not be able to collect disability benefits if they have never worked before. Even some people who have worked may not qualify.
Bear in mind that the first requirement Social Security establishes is the fact that you must have worked and paid taxes. So, disability benefits do not just require work. That is, the work you did had SSA coverage. A minimum of years may be necessary, but it depends on your age and when your disability started.
What is the second requirement to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits or SSDI?
If the first requirement had to do with your work history and the taxes you paid to Social Security for it, the second deals with disability. Therefore, you must have a certain medical condition. Not every single medical condition qualifies you for disability benefits. Meeting the strict definition of disability is essential to collect disability benefits
In fact, your medical condition must follow the strict definition of disability. This definition of disability is the one Social Security uses. If your disability does not meet this strict definition, you will not qualify for disability benefits.
How do I know if the medical condition I have qualifies me for SSDI benefits?
Social Security has made a list of impairments and medical conditions. Hence, if your disability is on that list, if will be easier to qualify for disability benefits. Those medical conditions are severe and they prevent you from earning enough money to get by. SSA uses the term substantial gainful activity (SGA).
If your disability does not allow you to get SGA level, you may qualify for disability benefits. In most cases, the impairments on the list are either fatal or permanent. That is, it is not possible to overcome them so far. Other impairments are severe but they have a particular duration too.
So, you will be able to go back to work after the recovery process. If this is your case, you should know Social Security offers programs to go back to work gradually. Collecting disability benefits while you work is possible for the trial period. Make use of the Ticket to Work program. This SSA Trial Work Period will give you confidence and support all the way through.