The Qualifications for Adult SSI Benefits

If you are unable to work because of a severe illness or injury, there is a good possibility that you may be eligible to receive disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). The qualifications for eligibility for adults are outlined below.

Your Impairment

The severity of your impairment is crucial to the final decision. You must be able to prove that your condition is severe enough to warrant the receipt of benefits. Your condition must be expected to last at least one year or result in your death. Further, you need to prove your need by presenting evidence such as medical and work records.

Medical Records

The court relies heavily on the medical records that are obtained from your medical providers when determining the outcome of your case. The court considers medical records from any acceptable treatment source, including medical doctors, podiatrists, optometrists, speech pathologists, and psychologists to name a few.

Ability to Work

Disability benefits are meant to act as a replacement for the income that has been lost due to an impairment. Your eligibility for benefits is reliant upon your ability to maintain gainful employment. You must be able to prove that your condition has prevented you from being able to do your job or having similar employment based on your age, skills, education, and remaining function.

Work History 

To qualify to receive SSI benefits, you must meet specific work qualification as well. You must have worked for at least 40 quarters in your lifetime at a job that required you to pay into the Social Security system, ten of which must have occurred in the past 10 years.

Other Determining Factors

Beyond health and work-related factors, the SSA also takes into consideration the following factors:

• Amount of income, currently you can make no more than $1,170 per month
• Citizenship or legal residency status
• No hospitalization, jail or other government-expensed confinement at the time of application

Apply for Benefits

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for benefits in one of three ways:

• In person at your local SSA office (be sure to make an appointment first)
• Over the phone with a representative at your local SSA office
• Fill out the online application form (this is the easiest and fastest way to apply)

Consulting with a disability representative can help the process go more smoothly and will increase your chances of having your claim approved. Contact London Disability today to see how we can help you.