Social Security Disability Criteria and SSDI Eligibility2025-02-14T14:54:33-06:00

Social Security Disability Criteria and SSDI Eligibility


What To Expect from A Case Evaluation to Qualify for SSDI Benefits

The purpose of a case evaluation performed by an attorney’s office is to determine whether you are disabled based on the Social Security Rules and have a chance to qualify for SSDI benefits. At our law office we usually do an initial screening on the telephone to find out some basic information. We are looking to see if you have anything that can disqualify you from even having a chance to obtain Social Security benefits.  An example of this would be your work status.  If you are still working we do not accept your case. Disability means not having the ability to work, so if you are working you don’t qualify for benefits.

We also want to make sure during you are seeing at least one doctor. To win a case you need medical records to prove you are disabled.  When you come into the office to meet with us you should have a list of your doctors and hospitals. You should know when you were hospitalized. We are also looking to see if your doctor practices in the area that makes you disabled. For example it is very difficult to win a case based on depression if you only see your primary care doctor.

We will typically review the disabilities you have, the treatment(s) you have received and any opinions from your doctors. We will tell you if we believe you meet the social security disability criteria to get disability benefits. Sometimes we will tell people we meet with what type of treatment they will need to prove they are disabled. An example of this would be if a person has a psychological disorder and needs to see a psychiatrist rather than a primary care physician.

Case evaluations on SSDI eligibility are helpful to potential applicants and the counsel who will be representing their case. If you are a first time applicant or have been denied SSDI benefits consider our office for representation. Contact us online for a free case evaluation or call (800) 419-7606.



To schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced and caring Illinois Social Security Disability Lawyer, contact our office today. There are no out of pocket cost and no fees unless we are successful in helping you obtain benefits.

More Information on Social Security Disability Criteria and SSDI Eligibility

Seeking Social Security Disability benefits for arthritis

Do you have arthritis and are looking to win your Social Security disability case? If so, know that our firm can help you with the process. We handle two main types of arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. If you have either of the two and want to increase your chances of convincing the judge, there are a few things that you can do. To learn our tips for winning your arthritis Social Security disability case, watch this video.

How Medical Improvement Impacts Social Security Disability Benefits

Have your Social Security benefits been approved? Did you know that you could be at risk of losing those benefits due to something called medical improvement? See two examples of how medical improvement could impact your case. Learn how comparison point decision date could come into play. To learn more about medical improvement and Social Security Disability, watch our video.

Applying for SSD Benefits with Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)

Degenerative joint disease, or DJD, is progressive, which means symptoms worsen over time. This can make it difficult for those who suffer from DJD to participate in activities of daily living or to work. If DJD interferes with your ability to work you may be eligible for social security disability (SSD) benefits. Here is what you need to know about applying for disability benefits with degenerative joint disease.

Applying for SSDI with a Temporary Disability

Although you cannot receive SSD benefits for partial disability, it is possible to qualify based on a temporary disability. For SSD purposes, “temporary disability” doesn’t mean a short-term disability – it means a disability or medical condition you are expected to eventually recover from. So long as the disability has lasted, or is expected to last, 12 months or more, you are eligible to apply for SSD benefits. Here’s what you need to know before deciding to apply.

What You Should Know About Lymphedema and Social Security Disability Benefits

Lymphedema is a condition that causes swelling in one or more parts of the body, usually the arm(s) and/or leg(s). Lymphedema can range in intensity from mild to severe. But is it severe enough to qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits? Here’s what you should know about lymphedema and SSD benefits before you apply. Watch our video.

Social Security Disability and Mental Health Disorders

The application process for SSD benefits is not easy. It is estimated that less than 40% of all SSD applications are approved. Furthermore, the application process is a lengthy one. For mental health disorders, investigators will likely be even more selective. Therefore, people should consider meeting with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney to prevent unnecessary problems from occurring.