Social Security Disability Qualifying Criteria

Determining if You Are Eligible for Benefits

If you are not sure how your own situation fits in with the criteria below, you can have your case evaluated for Free. An experienced disability advocate will determine exactly what benefits you are eligible to receive. Use the form on this page to get help immediately.

Will you be out of work for 12 months?

You must be out of work or expect to be out of work for one full year.

If you are working and your gross earnings average more than $1,550 per month, you will not be eligible for benefits.

Does your disability significantly limit your ability to work?
Your condition must be severe enough to limit basic work activities, like standing, walking, or sitting. It must be expected to last at least one full year.

Is your medical condition described in the List of Impairments?
The List of Impairments includes conditions that may qualify as automatic disabilities under Social Security guidelines. If your condition isn't listed, but is equally severe, you may still be approved for benefits.

Are you able to do the work you did before?
If your condition allows you to return to your previous job, you will not be eligible for benefits.

Are you able to do any other type of work?
The SSA will evaluate your age, education, work experience, and transferable skills. If you cannot reasonably perform other work, you may qualify for benefits.

Note: You must be younger than 65 to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance. You may qualify for Supplemental Security Income if you are age 65 or older.

Social Security Disability Advocates

Free Disability Case Evaluation

Determining if You Are Eligible for Benefits