If you have a serious injury or health condition that prevents you from working for at least a year—or is expected to result in death—you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. SSDI provides financial support and alleviates the emotional strain a disability can place on you and your family.
To secure the maximum benefits, you must meet the criteria established by the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you have questions about eligibility or the application process, it is highly recommended to contact an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer as early as possible.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Social Security Disability Benefits?
To qualify for SSDI benefits in California, you must meet the following requirements:
- Work History: You must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and have earned enough work credits to qualify.
- Medical Condition: You must have a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability, which includes:
- Inability to work or engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to the condition.
- Inability to perform your previous job or adjust to other work.
- Condition is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
- Recent Work: You must have worked recently enough to maintain eligibility for benefits.
How Does the SSA Determine Whether a Disability Qualifies for Benefits?
After confirming work history requirements, the SSA evaluates your disability using a five-step process:
- Are you working?
The SSA determines whether your earnings exceed SGA limits. For 2025, this is $1,620 per month, or $2,700 per month for blind individuals. If you are not performing SGA, your application moves to the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office. - Is your medical condition severe?
Your condition must prevent basic work-related activities, such as lifting, standing, walking, sitting, or remembering, for at least 12 consecutive months. - Is your condition on the SSA’s list of disabling conditions?
The SSA maintains a list of conditions severe enough to prevent SGA, including musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, mental health disorders, cancer, and immune system disorders. - Can you do your previous work?
SSA evaluates whether your impairment prevents you from performing any of your past work. - Can you do any other type of work?
If you cannot perform prior work, SSA considers your age, education, prior experience, and transferable skills to determine whether you can perform other work. If not, you are likely eligible for SSDI benefits.
What If My Medical Condition Is Not Listed in the SSA Blue Book?
Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify. The SSA performs a functional capacity assessment to determine whether your condition is equivalent in severity to a listed impairment or prevents you from performing SGA.
How Do I Apply for SSDI Benefits?
Applying for SSDI can be overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate the process alone. The Folsom Social Security Disability lawyers at Walters & Zinn, Attorneys at Law, guide clients through every step of the process, ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete.
You can apply:
- Online: Through the SSA website.
- In Person: At your local Social Security office for additional guidance.
Before applying, gather:
- Medical records detailing your condition and work limitations
- Employment history
- Financial records
What If My Claim Is Denied?
Many claims are initially denied due to incomplete or unclear medical records. If this happens, you can pursue several steps:
- Reconsideration: A new SSA reviewer examines your case.
- Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If denied after reconsideration.
- Appeals Council Review: If the ALJ denies the claim.
- Federal Court: As a last resort.
A Folsom Social Security Disability lawyer can assist throughout this process, protecting your rights and maximizing your chance of success.
Our Folsom Social Security Disability Lawyers at Walters & Zinn, Attorneys at Law Will Help You
If a disability prevents you from continuing to work, contact our Folsom Social Security Disability lawyers at Walters & Zinn, Attorneys at Law. Schedule a free consultation by calling 916-610-4706 or filling out our online form. Our offices in Folsom and Fairfield, California, serve clients throughout the surrounding areas.