Having been a disability lawyer in Melbourne, Florida for many years, we have seen hundreds of cases. Some of them are so strong that they make it through the approval process quickly. But even a strong case can hit a snag if the forms aren’t filled out properly or lack relevant data.
50,000 Social Security employees review over 2 million applications per year. This means then need to move through the pile of applications as quickly as possible. And although they would like to see everyone who really need disability payments receive it, there is no time on their end for an independent investigation.
A mistake on a form or lack of supporting evidence to back up a claim can cause the process to stall and set it back months or even years. This usually only happens when applicants go at it alone. They assume that because they are disabled that they will automatically be approved and getting that approval is just a formality.
But let’s look at it from the SSA’s point of view. You receive over 2 million applications (a chunk of which will be fraudulent) and all you have to go on is the information which is sitting in front of you in the form of an application. It’s simply not their job to follow up with all of your doctors. They need evidence that support all of your claims. Would you issue a payment to someone with an unsubstantiated claim?
Getting approved for disability payments is a major step in your life. It may mean the difference in being able to afford your current home or not. Don’t go at it haphazardly. Hire a professional attorney to get the job done right and on the first try. You’ll be glad you did.
Disability coverage is earned through many hard years of work in the workforce. From the day you are first employed you pay into the system. This is why these programs are called “entitlements”. You are entitled to the payments. But you must meet the criteria as laid out in the law.
To qualify for disability payments (SSDI or SSI) in the U.S., you must meet these SSA requirements:
- Disability: Have a medical condition lasting 12+ months or terminal, preventing substantial gainful activity (earning over ~$1,620/month in 2025, or $2,700 for blind individuals).
- Work Credits (SSDI): Earned enough Social Security credits (e.g., 40 credits, 20 in the last 10 years; fewer for younger workers).
- Income/Resources (SSI): Income below ~$943/month (individual) and assets under $2,000 (individual) or $3,000 (couple), excluding home and one vehicle.
- Medical Evidence: Provide proof of condition severity, matching SSA’s Blue Book or equivalent.
- Other: Be a U.S. citizen or qualifying resident, cooperate with SSA, and not have drug/alcohol use materially contributing to disability.
Thinking about applying for disability? You can apply on your own using the forms on the SSA’s website. Or you can hire a professional attorney much the same way you would a professional to handle your taxes. It’s not an expense; it’s an investment in a positive outcome.