The Help You Need For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a type of government benefit administered by the Social Security Administration. SSDI benefits are paid monthly to provide relief to people whose ability to work has been significantly impaired by a physical or mental impairment.
You may need legal help to get Social Security Disability benefits, even if your disabling condition seems severe and obvious. The majority of applicants are turned down when they first apply, but don’t give up!
Our attorneys have helped thousands of people in Southern California qualify for SSDI. Call us at 562-868-5886 for a free consultation.
Am I Eligible For Social Security Disability?
To be eligible for SSDI benefits, you must have a qualifying physical impairment or mental impairment (or a combination of the two) that significantly impairs your ability to work. Children and spouses who have lost a loved one may also be eligible for SSDI death benefits.
SSDI is an income replacement benefit paid to people who have worked and paid taxes into the Social Security system. You must have worked a sufficient period of time prior to your injury to be eligible for SSDI benefits. The benefits are paid monthly.
NOTE: If you are not eligible for SSDI because of limited work history, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). We also assist clients in SSI claims. Some people qualify for both SSDI and SSI.
What Is A Qualifying Impairment?
A qualifying impairment may arise as a result of a disabling accident, a heart condition, a disease, mental disability, brain damage or other disabling condition. Common conditions include back and neck injuries, spinal disorders, leg or knee impairment, hand or arm impairment, cancers, heart problems, vision or hearing loss, chronic pain and fatigue, organ damage, carpal tunnel syndrome, traumatic brain injury, dementia, and mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety.
There are specific criteria for each listed impairment. Having an injury or diagnosed condition does not automatically qualify you for SSDI. You must demonstrate that the symptoms or limitations prevent you from working. As a general rule, your disability must be severe enough to significantly impair your ability to work for at least a year.
However, you should not wait a year before contacting an attorney. If you have a condition that may impair your ability to work for a significant period of time, contact an attorney immediately to initiate your claims process early.
Additional Resources For SSDI
Visit any of the pages below to learn more about SSDI and SSI benefits:
- The SSDI/SSI claims process
- Appealing a denied disability claim
- Special considerations if you are over age 50 and disabled
- Frequently asked questions about SSDI
- Why hire an SSDI attorney and how to choose an disability attorney
Contact Our California Disability Benefits Lawyers
To speak with an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer, contact the Law Offices of Lawrence D. Rohlfing, Inc. CPC in Santa Fe Springs. To schedule a free consultation, call 562-868-5886. You may also contact us by email.