Thursday, January 3, 2008

Who Decides If I Qualify for Social Security Disability?

To qualify for social security disability income (SSDI) several criteria will be examined. You must send you completed application to the Social Security office where it will be reviewed to see if you meet the basic requirements for disability benefits.

Social Security and Employment History
Social Security personnel will look at whether you have worked long enough and recently enough to qualify for social security benefits. They will also look at your age and examine if you are applying for the benefits as a family member.

Disability Determination Services (DDS) office
The Social Security office will send your application to the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in your state. DDS personnel will determine whether you are disabled under the Social Security law at the first two stages:

  1. Application
  2. Reconsideration

Note: An appeal removes your claim from the State Agency and then assigns it to a Federal Administrative Law Judge with the Office of Hearings and Appeals.

SSDI Lawyers
Having a SSDI Lawyer can help you process your case with your local Disability Determination Services office. Your chances of winning your social security disability claim are greatly increased with a lawyer representing your disability case.