Do I Qualify for Social
Security Disability
in Metairie?

Who Qualifies for SSDI? 

Qualifying for SSDI hinges on several factors. You must: 

1. Have a Disability That Meets SSA’s Definition
   The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a strict definition of what constitutes a disabling condition. To qualify, your impairment must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related tasks and must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. 
2. Accumulate Enough Work Credits
   Work credits are earned based on your taxable wages, up to a certain amount each year. The number of credits needed typically depends on your age when you become disabled. 
3. Have Substantial Medical Evidence
   Your disability claim must be supported by medical records, diagnoses, and ongoing treatment information. Proving the severity of your condition is often a deciding factor in SSDI eligibility. 

Key Eligibility Requirements for SSDI 

It’s one thing to know you need a disabling condition, but it’s another to understand how the SSA evaluates that disability. Below are some critical requirements the SSA considers when assessing whether you qualify for SSDI benefits in Metairie or any other region: 

1. Duration and Severity of the Disability 

The SSA follows a five-step evaluation process to determine if your disability is severe enough to prevent you from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). If you are able to earn above a certain monthly threshold, the SSA may conclude that your condition is not severe enough to merit benefits. 

2. Listing of Impairments 

The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments—a compilation of medical conditions so severe that if your illness matches (or is equivalent to) one of them, you may qualify for SSDI automatically. However, many people qualify without being on this list by proving that their condition is equally limiting. 

3. Inability to Perform Past Work or Any Other Work 

Even if you can’t perform the job you once held, the SSA may evaluate your ability to do other types of work that align with your age, education, and skill level. You must demonstrate that no suitable alternative employment is reasonably available given your current limitations. 

4. Medical Evidence and Consistency 

Claims are largely decided on the basis of objective medical evidence. This includes doctor’s notes, test results, hospital records, and any other documentation showing the progression and impact of your condition. Inconsistencies between different sources of evidence can be a red flag, so it’s important to keep records well-organized and up-to-date. 

Types of SSD Benefits You Can Receive 

When people talk about SSDI eligibility, they often focus on monthly checks. However, there are multiple types of benefits associated with SSDI that can significantly impact your life. 

1. Monthly Cash Benefits
   These are direct payments that help cover living expenses while you’re unable to work. 
2. Medicare Coverage
   After receiving SSDI benefits for 24 months, you typically become eligible for Medicare, a valuable healthcare program that can significantly reduce your medical costs. 
3. Dependent Benefits
   In some cases, your spouse or children may also qualify for benefits if you meet certain criteria. 

How Is SSDI Different from SSI? 

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income) are both administered by the SSA, but they serve different populations and have distinct eligibility criteria: 

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): 

• • Requires sufficient work credits. 
  • Your financial resources don’t necessarily disqualify you. 
  • Often comes with a waiting period for Medicare coverage. 

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): 

• • Based on limited income and resources. 
  • Does not require work credits. 
  • Qualifies recipients for Medicaid in most states. 

If you have little to no work history but still meet the disability criteria, SSI may be an option. However, if you’ve been employed regularly and contributed payroll taxes, SSDI is typically the preferred route due to higher benefit amounts and eventual Medicare eligibility.