Workers in Ohio and across the U.S. may be eligible for certain benefits if they get injured or develop a condition that makes it difficult for them to continue working. If you have a similar situation and wish to seek benefits, you are certainly not alone. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, 8.2 million people receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
Getting injured on the job or diagnosed with a chronic illness can make it hard or impossible to work. As a result, it can be hard to make ends meet and keep up with medical expenses and daily living expenses. Social Security Disability Insurance can help to bridge the financial gap that occurs when people are unable to work due to an injury or medical condition.
What are the requirements for benefits?
In order to qualify for SSDI benefits, you must have worked for companies that are covered by Social Security. Furthermore, you must show that your condition makes it difficult for you to work. SSA representatives may use the following criteria to determine whether you are eligible for SSDI benefits:
- You have a current condition that significantly limits your ability to stand, walk, lift, sit or remember
- You must have suffered from symptoms or expected to suffer for at least 12 months
- You must have accumulated working credits
- You cannot perform the same tasks as you did previously
The office will also consider whether you can perform tasks at another type of job.
What will you need to apply?
Having your application filled out completely and accurately may help your case get approved quicker, which means you will receive your benefits in a more timely manner. It is important to include your physicians’ information, diagnosis of a condition, medical records to support your diagnosis and a list of current medications you take. In addition, you want to list critical information regarding how your condition has affected your ability to work, such as where you work and the types of duties you perform at your job.