Are Social Security Disability Benefits Right For You?

Social Security disability benefits programs are created to help people who are no longer able to work. These programs, which include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), are critical for helping to support people who otherwise cannot support themselves. But how do you know if Social Security disability benefits are right for you?

1. You have a severe physical or psychological condition
   • The first key aspect to knowing if you should apply for SSDI or SSI is whether or not you have a disability. In other words, you must have some kind of physical or psychological condition that is severe enough that it interferes with your ability to work or perform daily tasks. This should not be self-diagnosed, either, as you will need medical records as part of any application for benefits.
2. You have not been able to work
   • Another important aspect of knowing whether you should apply for SSDI or SSI is that you have not been able to do substantial work. This is for two reasons: first, it speaks to the severity of your condition that it prevents you from working, and second, there is a limit to the amount of work you can perform and still qualify for SSDI or SSI. If you exceed the maximum amount of income you are able to make, you may be disqualified from obtaining disability benefits.
3. You cannot perform daily activities on your own
   • You should also check to see the extent that you are able to perform daily activities on your own. This includes things like preparing food, cleaning your home, or performing any other important chores. If you find that you need assistance for any of these tasks, either due to physical limitations or psychological issues, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI.
4. Doctors have not been able to help sufficiently
   • Even if you do have a disability, SSDI and SSI are principally for people who cannot manage their disability effectively with medical treatment. This means that, if you want to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must consult a doctor about your condition and comply with whatever treatment they prescribe. If your condition does not get sufficiently better even with treatment, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI.
5. You need financial assistance
   • Finally, these disability benefits are meant for those who lack the resources to support themselves on their own. SSI, in particular, is heavily restricted depending on the value of your personal assets and your monthly income. If, however, you have difficulty paying your bills on your own, Social Security disability benefits may be right for you.

If you or a loved one need assistance applying for SSDI or SSI benefits, it is important that you seek the guidance of an experienced Social Security Disability benefits lawyer. The lawyers at Sullivan & Kehoe, LLP have over 50 years of combined experience between its attorneys and are available to you or your loved one in obtaining Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits. To schedule a consultation with our New York Social Security Disability benefits lawyers, call (631) 823-7155.