The definition of disability applies to SSDI and SSI benefits, but the eligibility requirements are different. Eligibility for SSDI benefits requires work history, work credits, and paid Social Security taxes. SSI benefits are for low-income individuals without a work history who are not eligible to apply for SSDI benefits.
If you need disability benefits in Illinois, call Ankin Law in Chicago at 872-529-9377. Our Social Security disability lawyers offer a free case review.
What Is the SSDI Definition of Disability?
The federal Social Security Administration administers two programs for Social Security disability. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provide disability benefits, but each program has its own eligibility requirements and payment schedules based on the definition of disability according to state laws.
SSDI Benefits
Eligibility for SSDI benefits is based on an individual’s work history, payment of social security taxes, and ability to work. To qualify for benefits, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration (SSA) definition of disability.
Work History and Work Credits
Under SSA guidelines for SSDI benefits, you must work long enough to acquire a certain number of work credits. You can earn up to 4 credits each year based on your wages. In 2024, you earn 1 credit for each $1,730 in wages or self-employment income you work in each quarter of the year. When you’ve earned $6,920, you have earned your 4 credits for the year. To be eligible for SSDI benefits, the 20/40 rule requires 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years ending with the year your disability begins.
Ability to Work
Social Security guidelines only allow SSDI benefits for total disability. No disability benefits are paid for short-term or partial disability. A qualifying disability must meet the following three conditions:
- You cannot perform work at the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level because of your medical condition
- You cannot perform previous work or adjust to other types of work because of your medical condition
- Your medical condition has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death
SSI Benefits
Eligibility for SSI benefits is based on an individual’s income and disability. SSI benefits are available to adults and children with low income, few or no resources, disabilities, and blindness. SSI benefits are also available to adults over the age of 65 with these conditions.
Since the definition of disability for SSI benefits requires low income and few resources, supplemental security income is impacted by a job, self-employment, and activities that earn money, including disability benefits, unemployment payments, and pensions. If you get SSDI benefits, and you live with a spouse or parent, their income may affect your monthly benefit amount.
Common Challenges When Applying for SSDI
Applying for SSDI benefits can be challenging due to filing requirements and proof of disability. The law defines the definition of disability as the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to physical disabilities or mental impairments that are expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Before you apply for SSDI benefits, make sure you understand the filing requirements and the SSA listing of impairments.
Filing Your Application
When filing your application for SSDI benefits, you should file it as soon as possible. There is a 5-month waiting period, which means benefit payments will not begin before the sixth full month of disability. The SSDI waiting period begins the first full month after the date that SSA decides your disability began.
When you fill out your application, pay close attention to all requested information. According to national statistics, more than half of applications submitted for SSDI benefits are denied. In 2022, only 40% of SSDI claims filed in Illinois were approved. The reasons for denied applications are often linked to the following:
- Missing or incorrect personal information
- Missing proof of work information
- Failure to provide sufficient medical evidence
- Failure to respond to phone calls
- Failure to attend a consultative exam (CE)
- Missed filing deadlines
Listing of Impairments
The SSA has a listing of impairments that meet the definition of disability under federal guidelines. This list contains adult listings (part A) and childhood listings (part B) for children under 18 years of age. The listing of impairments describes medical conditions for each major body system that are severe enough to prevent substantial gainful activity (SGA). Most conditions are permanent or expected to result in death. Each section contains a list and description of physical disabilities and mental disorders, and some conditions that automatically qualify you for disability. The listing of impairments includes 14 different medical conditions:
- Cardiovascular Disorders – heart disease, heart failure, and myocardial ischemia
- Digestive Disorders – severe dysfunction of the liver, pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract
- Endocrine Disorders – diabetes, hyperglycemia, and adrenal gland problems
- Mental Disorders – anxiety, depression, impulse control, and schizophrenia
- Respiratory Disorders – asthma, cystic fibrosis, lung transplant, and pulmonary fibrosis
- Skin Disorders – burns, dermatitis, genetic photo-sensitivity, and psoriasis
How a Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help You Through the Application Process
In Illinois, applications for SSDI benefits are handled by the Bureau of Disability Determination Services (DDS), the designated state department that makes initial determinations about disability eligibility. When you submit your application, DDS will review the information and collect your medical records that describe your impairment and health problems. They will also review your prior work experience, education, and age and evaluate your ability to perform substantial gainful activity (SGA).
The SSA requirements for SSDI benefits are strict and well-defined. Your eligibility for benefits depends on SSA approval based on your application. To avoid mistakes and boost your chances of approval, consider hiring Illinois Social Security disability lawyers who can help you through the application process by reviewing your application before submission, gathering required medical documents, talking to you and DDS about questions and concerns, and making sure your application is filed by the required deadline. If you are approved for benefits, your lawyer can explain the payment process for benefits, how much your monthly payment will be, and how long you can stay on Social Security disability.
SSDI benefits are based on your work history, earned work credits, payment of Social Security taxes, and your ability to perform work. Your lawyers can explain these important factors and make sure you meet the following requirements:
- You must be out of work or expected to be out of work for at least 12 months. If you are still working when you apply for benefits, your gross earnings must be lower than $1,040 per month to qualify for benefits.
- You must be unable to perform your prior work duties before your medical condition or disability occurs. You must also be unable to perform other types of work duties.
- Your medical condition must meet the SSA definition of disability and must be on the Listing of Impairments. If your condition is not listed, SSA will compare your condition to listed conditions with similar impairments.
A Disability Lawyer Can Help You Get SSDI Benefits
If you have a medical condition or disability that prevents you from working, you should know how to find a good disability lawyer who can help you get benefits. Taking the time to find the right lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. To find a lawyer for your disability case:
Ask for Recommendations
Ask your friends or family members if they can recommend an experienced disability lawyer. They may have worked with a disability lawyer or know someone who has. You can also ask your doctor or medical team that’s treating your disability or medical condition. They may have a partnership or a referral agreement with experienced Chicago disability lawyers.
Read Online Client Reviews
Most experienced disability lawyers have a website where you can search for information and read client reviews. This will give you a good background on the law firm, the type of cases they handle, and specific information on filing Social Security disability applications and claims.
Check the Illinois Bar Association Website
Every state has a Bar Association. The Illinois Bar Association website will have links to qualified disability attorneys in your specific area. There are also free lawyer directories where you can search by location and area of law to get detailed information.
If you need help with Social Security disability benefits in Illinois, contact us. Our Chicago disability lawyers offer a free case review. Call us today at 872-529-9377.
