For West Virginians who suffer disabling conditions that prevent them from returning to work, figuring out how to make their ends meet can be overwhelming. People who have earned enough work credits based on their age might be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). To be approved for SSDI, people must have qualifying medical conditions that substantially impair their ability to perform the activities involved with daily life and that are expected to last for at least 12 months.
Listed conditions
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a list of impairments that are considered disabling enough to qualify for SSDI. These conditions are broken down by bodily system, and there are separate lists for adults and children younger than 18. While a listed impairment will still need to be evaluated, an individual who has a listed condition might have an easier time being approved. Listed conditions are broken down into the following categories and can be found on the SSA’s website:
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Cardiovascular system
- Hematological disorders
- Congenital disorders affecting multiple systems
- Cancer
- Special senses and speech
- Skin disorders
- Digestive system
- Immune disorders
- Neurological disorders
- Respiratory disorders
- Genitourinary disorders
- Mental disorders
- Endocrine disorders
Numerous conditions are listed under each of the above categories.
What if you have an unlisted condition?
If your disabling condition doesn’t appear on the SSA’s list of impairing conditions that qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, that doesn’t mean that you are ineligible for SSDI. However, you will have to present thorough evidence to support your claim and show how your condition impacts your ability to perform substantial gainful activity. The types of evidence that will be needed include medical records, lab reports, diagnostic tests, doctor’s notes, and other evidence that shows the severity of your condition and how it affects your ability to function at work and while performing basic tasks.
The process involved with getting approved for SSDI can be long and complicated. It’s important for you to see your doctor regularly and follow all treatment recommendations you receive. Having thorough treatment records can help to show that your condition is sufficiently disabling to support your claim.