What qualifies as a disability for SSDI?

One of the biggest obstacles to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits is to prove that you have a disability. Not only do you need to show you have a disability, but that the condition you have meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of a qualifying disability. It is not enough to have a Massachusetts doctor say your condition is disabling. There are specific things the SSA looks for when making its decision.

According to the SSA, a disability for SSDI purposes has to be long-term. This means it must be a condition you will have for at least a year. It also must prevent you from doing your job, and accommodations will not allow you to continue your job. To have a qualifying disability, it must meet all three of these points.

The SSA is very strict about qualifying disabilities. There is no leeway for any of the requirements. The SSA will look at the information you provide about your condition, including doctor’s reports. It will also conduct an investigation, which might turn up that an accommodation can be made by your employer, which would disqualify you from getting benefits.

The SSA also has a list of disabling conditions. If your condition is on that list, you will automatically qualify because the SSA has already vetted those conditions and found that they meet the requirements for benefits. If your condition is not on the list, then the SSA will investigate. This information is for education only and does not constitute legal advice.