Our Social Security Disability Attorney, Thomas Moore, understands the Social Security Disability application process thoroughly. He will work hard to get you, or someone you care about, benefits.
We are currently only taking social security cases that have been previously denied. Please contact us for a free consultation or call us at 425-455-3186.
Determining eligibility for Social Security Disability
To qualify for Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, certain medical and non-medical requirements must be met.
Medical requirement
A person must have a medically-determinable impairment (or combination of impairments) that prevents them from performing substantial gainful activity. The Social Security Administration must consider all of a person’s medical conditions, both physical and mental, when determining whether a person can work.
Anyone who is incapable of performing full-time employment due to a severe medical condition may meet the medical eligibility requirements for SSD and SSDI.
Non-Medical requirement
A person must also have worked long enough to have acquired a sufficient number “credits” to be eligible for benefits.
For Supplemental Security Income, a person must be eligible financially and must not have income, assets or resources above a certain monetary level. Children can also qualify for Supplemental Security Income benefits depending upon parental income.
Applying for Social Security Disability
It’s important to meet with your primary care physician to discuss your disability. Before applying, you should be sure they are supportive. SSA will require your doctor to state that your inability to work is due to your medical condition. SSA will require your doctor to state that your inability to work is due to your medical condition.
Therefore, it is necessary to establish a relationship with a primary care physician to establish the parameters of your disability. Otherwise, you’ll be denied benefits based on a lack of proof that the disability exists.
To begin the application process, you can start filling out an application online, or you can meet with your local social security office to fill out an application. The process can be daunting, especially for those who are dealing with multiple disabilities, anxiety, depression or problems with cognition. Most find it necessary to work with an attorney after receiving an initial denial.
How to appeal your social security disability denial.
Other Resources:
Seattle Community Law Center (SCLC)
The SCLC mission is to provide accessible legal advocacy to people living with physical and mental disabilities so that they may obtain the resources necessary to overcome barriers to financial and medical stability. Since 1997, SCLC has provided legal advice and representation to low-income individuals with disabilities, in matters related to their entitlement to Social Security disability, and SSI benefits. To see if you qualify for help, please contact them.
Seattle Community Law Center
1404 E. Yesler Way, Suite 203
Seattle, WA 98122
General Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Please call for specific attorney hours.)
Tel: (206) 686 – 7252
info@seattlecommlaw.org