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

Can You Collect Unemployment Benefits and Receive SSD Benefits

It could take almost two years before your SSD application is approved and you begin receiving benefits. The low initial approval rates combined with the lengthy wait times mean that many people who are unable to work apply for unemployment benefits to bridge the gap. While it is possible to obtain SSD benefits while receiving unemployment, some issues could complicate the process.

Is Diabetic Neuropathy / Peripheral Neuropathy an Official Disability?

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can affect many bodily functions, though it most often affects the nerves in the lower extremities, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs and feet. For some, the effects of diabetic neuropathy are mild; for others, they are debilitating. If you were diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and are unable to work, you may be eligible to receive social security disability (SSD) benefits.

Spinal Stenosis And Applying For Social Security Disability Benefits

To qualify for SSD benefits based on a diagnosis of spinal stenosis, applicants must meet each of the criteria listed in the SSA’s disability blue book, with appropriate imaging to support the diagnosis and its negative effect on the ability to work. Do you suffer from Spinal Stenosis and are you considering applying for SSD Benefits? Learn more about the process in this blog post.

The role of the ‘blue book’ in determining Social Security Disability eligibility

Do you know what the Social Security Blue Book is? Formally titled “Disability Evaluation Under Social Security,” it’s a list of disabilities that presumptively qualifies a claimant for disability benefits. Unfortunately, the Blue Book is often misleading and misunderstood by people who apply for SS benefits. Many people come to us under the impression that they will be automatically awarded benefits because their diagnosis is in the book, but this list is extremely nuanced and has extremely detailed requirements. To learn more, watch the short video.