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Social security disability insurance (SSDI) provides financial support for individuals who are unable to work due to medical issues or physical disability. Like many types of government benefits, the process of qualifying and applying for benefits can be very confusing. Our New Hampshire and Massachusetts SSDI attorneys can provide legal help with Social Security Disability Insurance applications and appeals so that you can start receive the financial assistance that you need. Here are a few things you should know about SSDI and our legal services.
What is SSDI
If you worked in the United States, then a portion of every paycheck was contributed to Social Security. You’ve probably seen it noted on your paystub. Having contributed to this fund for a certain amount of time earns you “credits” which may then qualify you for benefits such as SSDI and retirement benefits. Credits are earned yearly based on your income. $1,410 in income reported by your employer earns you 1 credit, and you can receive up to 4 credits per year. Click here to learn more about credits. The amount of your benefits, if approved, will depend on your work history. The maximum benefit is $1,800 per month.
Qualifying for SSDI
SSDI is provided to disabled adults or children who are unable to work or have limited financial resources. Qualification is based on the number of credits earned, your age at the time of disability, and your type of disability. In general, you need between 20 and 40 credits to qualify for SSDI. Younger applicants need fewer credits than older applications. For example, a 28 year old needs only 20 credits, but 12 credits must have been earned over the previous 6 years. A 63 year old needs 40 credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the previous 10 years. Lastly, the type of physical impairment is also important. Your medical condition must be fatal or long-term (a year or longer) and prevents you from working.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits
To apply for Social Security Disability Insurance, you must provide several different types of information:
- Personal Information
- Work History
- Details of Your Disability
- Medical Records
There is an option to apply online if it’s your first time filing and you are at least 18 years of age. Applications can take up to 6 months for review and approval. If you are denied, there is a process to appeal the decision.
Legal Help with Social Security Disability Insurance
The SSDI process can be scary and confusing for many. Our SSDI attorneys service Massachusetts and New Hampshire and can assist you with everything from filling out the forms to submitting information, monitoring your progress, filing appeals, and attending hearings. We know how to prepare and present information to give you the best chance for approval. Handling things properly the first time can avoid painful delays and necessary appeals. We understand that you’re applying for SSDI because you have limited financial resources in the first place, so our goal is to help you get SSDI benefits as quickly as possible. Please contact us to schedule a personal consultation and to receive legal help with social security disability claims.