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Hazleton, PA Social Security Disability (SSDI) Lawyer

We need to be able to work to support ourselves and our families. Unfortunately, life does not always go as planned, and accidents, injuries, and illness might occur. Sometimes, people become so ill or injured that they cannot return to work. If this happens, you can work with a lawyer to file for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

Not all injured or sick workers are eligible for SSDI benefits. Generally, your condition must be considered a disability within the definition set by law, and your disability must leave you unable to perform “substantial gainful activity.” Your condition must be long-term and be expected to last at least 12 months or end in death. The sooner you meet with an attorney to discuss your case, the better. It takes time for SSDI claims to be approved. The sooner you get started, the sooner you may be approved. Your attorney can walk you through the online application or arrange an appointment with an SSA agent.

For a free review of your case, call our Social Security disability lawyers at Young, Marr, Mallis & Associates at (215) 515-2954.

Eligibility Requirements for SSDI Benefits in Hazleton, PA

Simply being injured or sick does not automatically qualify a person for SSDI benefits. Many people who have physical or mental conditions are still able to work. To meet the eligibility criteria, not only must you have a disability, but your disability must prevent you from working. If you can still work, even in a different field, you might want to talk to our Social Security disability attorneys about other possible forms of assistance.

Disability

According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), a person may qualify for SSDI benefits if their physical or mental condition meets the definition of a disability described under federal law 20 C.F.R. § 1505(a). Under this definition, a disability is a medically determinable mental or physical impairment that inhibits a person from performing work that may be considered “substantial gainful activity.” Not only that, but your condition must be expected by doctors to persist for no less than 12 months or end with death.

This can sometimes be a point of confusion for people seeking to file claims for SSDI benefits. It is possible that a person might have a medically diagnosed disability, but their disability does not meet the criteria set out under federal law. For example, you might be disabled only temporarily, or your disability does not interfere with your ability to work. For example, many people who are disabled and use wheelchairs are still able to work and support themselves.

Ability to Work

As mentioned, your mental or physical condition must prevent you from being able to work to qualify for SSDI benefits. The law specifically states that an eligible person must be unable to perform substantial gainful activity. According to § 404.1572, substantial gainful activity is work that is in some way significant and done for profit.

Work is considered substantial if it takes a significant mental or physical toll on you. Work does not need to be full-time or objectively difficult to be considered substantial. Part-time work or work performed in a reduced capacity (e.g., cutting back your hours) may also be considered substantial.

Gainful work is done for profit. This includes work performed for an hourly wage, a salary, gig work, and many other forms of employment. Profit does not need to be realized for the work to be considered gainful. For example, if a business idea fails and does not make money, the work that went into it may still be considered gainful because it was done for profit, even though the profits never came through.

Work History

To be eligible for SSDI, you need a sufficient history of work. According to the SSA, you need a certain number of work credits, which are earned each year you are working. Generally, the older you are when you become disabled, the more work credits you need to qualify. Generally, adults need at least 40 credits, 20 of which were earned within the last 10 years. However, younger people may qualify with fewer credits.

When You Should Consider Applying for SSDI Benefits in Hazleton, PA

If you are unsure whether your condition qualifies you for SSDI benefits, talk to your doctor about the extent of your diagnosis. You should also speak to a lawyer to determine if your condition meets the eligibility criteria. Below are some circumstances that lead people to file for SSDI benefits.

One possibility is that you became sick or injured and can no longer work. Remember, being out of work temporarily is not enough. Your condition must be long-term or terminal. Many people suddenly develop illnesses or are injured in accidents that take a huge toll on their bodies. If this sounds like you, talk to your lawyer about SSDI.

Another factor to consider is your other options. Some people become disabled but have enough savings and assets to remain independent. Others are less fortunate. If you have few other options for financial support or assistance, consider talking to an attorney.

The sooner you get started, the better. It might take some time for your case to be approved, which means you might be without income or benefits for a while. It is better to speak to a lawyer who can get your case started before you run out of savings to support yourself while you wait for your case to be approved.

How to Apply for SSDI Benefits in Hazleton, PA

Applications can be completed online. You may also schedule an appointment with an SSA agent to discuss your application and how to apply. Depending on the circumstances, your appointment may be in person or over the phone. However you apply, you should have the necessary information ready so your application is accurate and more likely to be approved.

To apply, you will need details about your condition. Medical records and letters from your doctors may be very important. You must also include personal information, like your Social Security number and other identifying information.

You must also come prepared with details about your work history and earnings, including information about any recent work or jobs. When was the last time you held a job? Were you working at all after you became disabled? What was your income? Having this information ready will allow you to apply with ease and hopefully get the benefits you need.