If you are considering applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), it’s important to know from the outset that the majority of applications are denied on the first try. However, an initial rejection is not the end of the road, so don’t feel like you’re alone on this. Your application is much more likely to be approved on the second try — especially if you get help from an SSDI attorney who is familiar with the process in Kentucky and the Tri-State Area.
Naturally, one of the first questions people have is, “Am I disabled in the eyes of Social Security?” Here are some things to understand:
One factor is how long the disability is expected to last
To qualify for SSDI benefits, your disability must have lasted or be expected to last for a year or longer.
Medical evidence is necessary
You will need a medical record indicating your disability. Generally, a doctor can provide a medical opinion on the type of disability and how it prevents you from working.
You must have a documented work history
SSDI benefits are available to people who have worked and paid taxes into Social Security. These payments are generally taken out of people’s paychecks. Social Security will want to see documentation of this, along with your medical records.
IMPORTANT: Lack of documentation is one of the leading reasons for SSDI denials. You may have the information somewhere, but Social Security will still reject your application if you do not include all the necessary documents. To be sure you have all the required paperwork, you should speak with an SSDI attorney.
To learn more, please see our overview of Applying for SSDI Benefits.