When you need Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must demonstrate that you have a medically determinable impairment in Southfield. This can be challenging for many reasons.
If you are dealing with a disability, it is important to become familiar with the strict eligibility criteria you must meet to qualify for SSDI benefits. Our experienced SSDI attorneys at Thurswell Law Firm could help you understand your rights and discuss your case.
What Is a Medically Determinable Impairment?
To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must be unable to perform substantial gainful employment in Southfield due to a medically determinable impairment (MDI). The impairment can be either physical or mental.
You must also show that:
- An anatomical, physiological, or psychological abnormality caused the impairment
- The impairment can be proven through clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques
- The impairment has been established through objective medical evidence
It is important to note that having a doctor or specialist’s diagnosis, medical opinion, or personal statement about your symptoms is not enough to establish an MDI.
Medical Evidence
You will need substantial evidence to demonstrate an MDI. This may include findings that support your diagnosis, such as medical records, laboratory results, and notes from your doctor.
Acceptable Medical Sources
Medical sources must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) requirements. Accepted medical sources include licensed doctors and physician assistants, as well as certified medical specialists. In some cases, advanced-practice nurses also qualify. Once an MDI is established, the SSA will assess your case.
Next Steps in the SSDI Application Process
After you prove your MDI, you must meet additional criteria to qualify for SSDI in Southfield.
The Severity of the Disability
Your disability must be severe enough to prevent you from performing substantial gainful employment. This means that you cannot perform the work you did before becoming disabled or any other full-time job.
The Duration of the Disability
You are only eligible for SSDI benefits if you have a total disability that is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Benefits are not available for short-term or partial disabilities.
Work Credits
Additionally, you must have sufficient recent work credits, which are based on total yearly wages or your annual income if you were self-employed. A total of four credits can be earned in a year. To qualify, you typically need 40 credits, with at least 20 from the 10 years prior to qualifying. This is known as the 20/40 rule. However, younger workers may meet eligibility requirements with fewer credits.
SSDI Benefits
If you are able to demonstrate your MDI and meet the other requirements to qualify for SSDI in Southfield, you will receive monthly payments to help replace your lost income. The amount will be based on your earnings history and annual cost-of-living adjustments.
You may be eligible for additional benefits, including Medicare coverage, which typically applies after a 24-month waiting period. In some cases, family members are also eligible for benefits.
Call Our Southfield Attorneys About Establishing an MDI
Establishing that you have a medically determinable impairment in Southfield to qualify for SSDI is challenging. Fortunately, our disability attorneys at Thurswell Law Firm have decades of experience with complex cases, and experience gets results. Call us today to explore your options.
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