What Is Social Security Disability?

Social Security Disability Insurance, commonly known as SSDI is a federal program for people who are unable to work due to a diagnosed disability.

The program is sponsored by payroll taxes and is administered by the Social Security Administration. To qualify for SSDI, an individual must have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a certain number of years and must have a disability that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Once approved, SSDI recipients receive a monthly cash benefit based on their past earnings.

If your disability is preventing you from working and your SSDI claim has been denied, it may be time to seek legal advice. An experienced disability attorney can help you understand the appeals process and provide guidance on how to best present your case. They can also help you gather evidence and prepare for hearings, as well as represent you in court if necessary. 

Who Is Eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance?

Not everyone may be eligible for SSDI. In fact, only individuals who have paid into the Social Security system for a certain amount of time are eligible. There are generally two rules you’ll need to meet to be eligible for this benefit:

1. Meet the SSA’s Definition of Disability
   The Social Security Administration has specific rules for defining disability. To receive benefits, your disability must be severe, long-term and limit your ability to work.
   
   Examples of conditions and illnesses that may qualify you for SSDI include neurological disorders, such as epilepsy and cerebral palsy; mental disorders, such as autism and schizophrenia; musculoskeletal problems, such as back and spine conditions; and issues affecting your senses, such as vision or hearing loss.
   
2. Disability-Insured Status
   When you work, your employer takes a percentage of your wages and pays it into the Social Security trust fund for you. Once you’ve paid enough into this fund, you can be considered insured and eligible for the SSDI benefit.
   
   If you’re not sure whether you’ve reached the disability-insured status, you can contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to find out.

How Much Money Can I Receive Each Month with SSDI?

The amount you can receive is based on how much you paid into the Social Security trust fund. The average monthly payment for SSDI in 2023 is $1,483.

However, how much you receive can vary depending on your monthly wages, how long you’ve worked and other factors.

How to Apply for SSDI in Ohio?

1. Gather the necessary documents: You’ll need to provide proof of your identity, such as a driver’s license or passport, and proof of your work history, such as W-2 forms or pay stubs. You’ll also need to provide medical records that document your disability.
   
2. Complete the application form: You can apply for SSDI online at www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability or by calling 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment with your local Social Security office.
   
3. Submit the application form and supporting documents: The SSA will review your application and determine if you are eligible for SSDI benefits based on your work history and medical records. Generally, you can expect to wait three to five months before a decision is made.
   
4. Attend a disability hearing if necessary: If the SSA denies your initial application, you may be able to appeal the decision by requesting a disability hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). At this hearing, you can present evidence in support of your claim for SSDI benefits.

Why Have I Been Denied SSDI?

The Social Security Administration will carefully evaluate your application to establish you’re unable to work due to your disability and have enough work credits to receive the benefit.

If they aren’t convinced you meet the medical criteria for disability and/or you don’t have enough work credits, your application will likely be denied.

Additionally, if the Social Security Administration (SSA) finds that you are able to do some type of work, they may deny your claim. Other reasons for denial include:

• Failing to provide sufficient medical evidence
• Lying on your application
• Your disability stems from drug or alcohol dependence
• You are eligible for short-term disability
• There was a clerical error when processing your application

These denial reasons are not necessarily the final word on your situation. A skilled SSDI attorney may be able to frame your challenges in a way that’s more conducive to SSA’s criteria or find additional relevant evidence to your filing.

When to Hire an Ohio Disability Attorney?

Many SSDI claims get denied because the applicant did not provide enough evidence to prove their disability. It’s never too early to hire a disability lawyer. Even if you haven’t yet applied for SSDI, an experienced lawyer can help you gather the necessary evidence and paperwork to make sure your application is complete and accurate.

In the event your SSDI claim is denied and you believe your application wasn’t handled properly, a lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process and increase your chances of success.

Let Us Help You Fight for Your SSDI Benefits

At the Buckeye Law Group, we’re committed to fighting for hard working Ohioans who struggle to make ends meet because of a debilitating disability. If your SSDI claim has been denied or you’re not sure how to submit an application, we’re here to help.

Our skilled and dedicated Social Security disability lawyers can help you gather evidence to support your claim, prepare a strong appeal and represent you in court if necessary.

Call 1-800-411-PAIN to discuss your case for free.