Before Applying for SSD - Eligibility

Should I describe my type of work/past industry while applying?

Social Security was designed to help people in need. While the majority of assistance goes to older Americans, a large portion of Social Security’s benefits go to those with disabilities.

Filing for disability benefits can be tricky; however, so it is vital that your application is properly filled out. With the right information and resources, you can hopefully be approved for disability benefits in as little as a few months.

Should I describe my work experience when applying?

In short: Definitely yes. And here is why:

What are the Requirements for SSI?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) differs from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in that SSI payments are made from the general funds of the United States Treasury whereas SSDI benefits are paid from the Social Security Trust Fund. Accordingly, no previous work history is required. To qualify for SSI benefits, you must have little or no income and meet any of the following three criteria:

Where can I find a Social Security office near me?

Disability benefits are a great way to cover the costs of medical bills and every day living expenses if you suffer from a disability or medical condition and are unable to work. To start receiving benefits, you have to apply for them with the Social Security Administration (SSA) either online, over the phone, with the help of an attorney, or in person at your local SSA office. Fortunately, there are many SSA offices throughout the country to make an in-person application as accessible as possible.

How does the SSA define "disability?"

Social Security has a very strict definition of “disability.” To be considered disabled in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Social Security Administration (SSA), you must meet the following criteria:

Are There Special Disability Programs for Wounded Warriors?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has disability programs for people who are medically disabled and are unable to work. You should know that if you’re a veteran who’s a wounded warrior, the SSA makes allowances for you to receive Social Security disability and VA disability simultaneously. In fact, the SSA will expedite claims for military service members who have become disabled while actively serving on or after October 1, 2001, regardless of where your disability has occurred.

How should I apply for benefits at age 60+?

Some Americans are unsure of whether or not they can still qualify for disability benefits as they reach old age. However, older Americans actually see some benefits that other applicants don’t experience when they apply for disability.

Continue below to learn how the “grid rules” of disability qualification apply to you, and how you can get started with your application.

Applying for Disability Benefits After Age 50 - Rules & What to Know

Nearly 1 in 5 Americans report having a disability of some kind. Of these Americans, the majority are over 50 years old.

What does “ambulate effectively” mean in the Blue Book?

Applying for disability benefits can be tricky, especially when figuring out if you may qualify for benefits. The Social Security Blue Book is a great resource to refer to here, but even the Blue Book uses language that may be difficult to understand.

If your disorder requires an inability to “ambulate effectively,” continue below to learn what this term means and how you can provide evidence of this on your disability application.

Can I apply for Social Security if other members of my family are working?

If you are unable to work because of a medical condition, you might be eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits. While you may have several questions about how you can qualify for benefits, you should not be concerned if you have family members who are working in most situations.

Does getting laid off affect my eligibility?

To be approved for disability benefits, you must meet the qualifications for being fully disabled. No partial disability benefits are available for those who have disabilities. If you are physically well enough to work to earn substantial gainful income, you are not going to be approved for disability benefits.

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