If you are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can be a vital resource. Unfortunately, qualifications and eligibility for SSDI are not always straightforward. Many disabled individuals are unsure about their eligibility or have already received a denial. At Schaffer & Associates, we are here to guide you through the process. A Toledo Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) lawyer can help determine whether you qualify and assist with the next steps if your application has been denied.
We proudly serve clients in Toledo and the surrounding area. Our small firm provides personal attention—you will always speak with the same attorney handling your case, not be passed around or ignored.
SSDI is a federal benefits program for individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. To qualify, you must meet two core requirements: you must be considered disabled by Social Security standards, and you must have earned enough work credits over a certain period of time. This is different from Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is based on income and resources.
To meet the disability criteria for SSDI, your condition must prevent you from engaging in any substantial productive activity. Conditions can include physical impairments, mental health conditions, or a combination of both. The condition or disability must also be expected to last at least 12 months or be a terminal condition. Common qualifying conditions include:
However, even with these diagnoses, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may deny your claim if they believe you are still able to perform certain work. That is why it is important to have an attorney in Toledo who can help you with SSDI qualifications from the beginning—or as soon as a denial occurs.
The second part of SSDI eligibility involves your work record. Generally, in order to qualify, you must have paid into Social Security for at least five of the past 10 years before your disability began. Too often, applicants do not realize their coverage has expired. Even if you worked steadily in the past, you may no longer be eligible if your recent work history does not meet the SSA’s requirements.
We understand how the SSA calculates work credits and how those rules apply to your case. If you are not eligible for SSDI, our Toledo lawyers can help you determine if you qualify for other programs, such as SSI. We have extensive experience helping disabled individuals sort through complicated eligibility issues and pursue the benefits they are entitled to.
Many SSDI applications are denied at the initial stage—not because the applicant is ineligible, but because of incomplete records or misunderstanding of the rules. If you were denied due to these filing errors, do not feel disheartened. You have a right to appeal your denial, and our team is here to help ensure your appeal’s success.
At Schaffer & Associates, we handle SSDI appeals at the administrative level. These are informal hearings, usually held in front of an administrative law judge. Our team of capable lawyers can help you qualify for SSDI benefits by gathering supporting medical evidence, preparing your testimony, and representing you in Toledo and the surrounding area. Whether your disability stems from a long-term condition or a recent accident, we know how to present a clear case to the SSA that demonstrates why you qualify under their rules.
Navigating SSDI applications and eligibility can be a confusing and stressful process, but there are many resources available. A Toledo Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) lawyer from Schaffer & Associates can help to evaluate your situation, explain your options, and guide you through the appeal process.
Contact our team today for the help you need to move forward with confidence.