Social Security Disability Insurance—or SSDI—is a program designed to replace the income of workers who are unable to maintain their employment due to a disability. These benefits are limited to individuals who are disabled and who have an extensive and recent work history.

If you feel as though you are entitled to these benefits, a seasoned social security attorney might be able to help. Even if you meet all the qualifications, you could end up with a denied submission. An SSDI lawyer could assist you throughout every stage of the claims process, including appealing an unfair denial.

Who Qualifies for SSDI?

In order to qualify for SSDI benefits, an applicant must meet two vital qualifications. If neither of these qualifications are met, benefits will not be available. An SSDI attorney could provide advice to anyone wondering whether or not they might qualify.

Work History

The first qualification for SSDI involves the applicant’s work history. These benefits are not paid from general revenues; they are paid from Social Security taxes. During the course of their career, a person working in the United States will pay these taxes out of each paycheck. It typically takes around ten years of full-time work in order to qualify for the full benefits. This work history must be recent, meaning that available benefits could be lower if a person’s work history occurred years ago.

Disability

The second qualification for SSDI benefits is a recognized disability. These benefits are not intended for partially disabled workers. Likewise, benefits will not be paid for short-term disability. To meet this standard, an applicant must be unable to engage in what is known as “substantial gainful activity.” This means their condition prevents them from performing the meaningful tasks needed to hold a job.

This condition must be either long-term or permanent. That means a doctor believes it will either last at least one year or might result in the applicant’s death. An applicant whose condition does not meet this standard will not qualify. A knowledgeable lawyer could review an individual’s work and medical history to determine whether SSDI benefits might be available to them.

Are SSDI Benefits Taxable?

Some applicants might wonder if being approved for these benefits will lead to a higher tax burden. The answer to this question is not the same for every person. Generally speaking, it is possible that SSDI benefits could increase an individual’s taxes because these payments are treated as income under the law. Though, in most cases, this is not an issue. Most of the applicants seeking benefits through SSDI will not end up paying income taxes for most years, because in order to qualify they must be unable to perform substantial gainful activity.

Is it Legal to Work While on SSDI?

It might come as a surprise to learn that many people are able to work while receiving SSDI benefits. It is imperative to understand that not all forms of employment will qualify as substantial gainful activity. There is also the possibility of a trial work period for anyone attempting to return to work. An SSDI attorney could help explain how a trial period could help a worker transition from this monthly government assistance back into the workplace.

Get Help with Filing Your Claim from an SSDI Attorney

SSDI benefits could be an important lifeline for anyone that finds themselves unexpectantly disabled and out of a job. If you are unable to work due to a disability, you might be entitled to these benefits.

Unfortunately, qualifying for this government program can often be a long and complicated process, especially if you are attempting to apply on your own. Reach out to an experienced SSDI lawyer for the guidance you need to obtain these vital benefits as soon as possible. We provide nationwide support—wherever you are, we are ready to help with your claim. Call now to get started.