Each year, hundreds of thousands of Americans apply for Social Security Disability Benefits due to suffering from a mental or physical condition that prevents them from working. Estimates show as many as 4.5 million United States citizens are currently enrolled to receive some Social Security benefit, and nearly one-quarter of 20-year-olds today will become disabled before reaching the full retirement age.
One of the most common questions asked by those considering such benefits is, “What makes an individual’s condition eligible for disability benefits?” An article published by the Chicago Tribune explains four essential criteria must be met to receive approval on a disability claim:
- An individual must suffer from a “severe” medical condition that prevents them from gaining employment.
- The condition must be expected to be fatal or last longer than one year.
- The condition must prevent an individual from performing the job functions they once did.
- The condition must prevent the patient from adjusting to other work.
If a condition meets these requirements, officials will check to ensure the claimant has worked and paid into the system long enough to collect benefits.
The Social Security Disability Lawyers with the law firm of Newlin Disability recognize how complex applying for disability benefits can be. The firm suggests discussing your case with an attorney if you wish to receive these benefits or have a claim that was denied in the past.