Applying for Social Security Disability benefits for an illness

There are millions of Americans who are dealing with debilitating illnesses on a daily basis. For these people, the simplest of daily tasks can be a huge undertaking. But does their illness qualify as a disability? That can be a crucial question when it comes to applying for Social Security Disability benefits for an illness.

There are a couple of major requirements that must be met in order for a person’s disease or illness to legally qualify them for SSD benefits. First, the condition in question must be expected to last for 12 months or longer. Alternatively, it must be demonstrated that the medical condition will actually result in death. But the expected duration of the illness isn’t all that’s needed – it must be demonstrated that the illness prevents the applicant for SSD benefits from participating in substantial gainful activity.

Besides the medical details of the health condition, an applicant must also provide documentation that shows that enough “work credits” have been earned to qualify the applicant to receive SSD benefits. Essentially, this means that the applicant must have had a long enough time as an employee who contributed to Social Security taxes to be qualified.

At Bridgman Law Offices, we know that North Carolina residents who are suffering from a serious illness or medical condition will have many questions and concerns. Of all concerns, however, financial concerns will likely be high on the list. We do our best to help our clients understand the application process to receive Social Security Disability benefits. For more information, please visit our SSD web page.