There are two distinctly different types of Social Security disability benefit programs. To be eligible for either program; SSDI or SSI, you must meet medical and financial guidelines. All applications for Social Security disability in Missouri are subject to examination by examiners who work for SSA, the Social Security Administration, it is they who decide if the illness or injury you claim is disabling, whether or not you have earned sufficient work credits to apply for SSDI or have a very low income and minimal assets that would make you eligible for SSI.
Medical requirements:
Due to the complexity of the entire process and the amount of supporting documentation that is required, many applicants, especially those applying for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) will hire a knowledgeable lawyer.
The most important rule even to be considered for benefits is that your disability must be expected to last at least 12 months or already lasted that long. There are no temporary benefits available nor does it consider partial disability. To qualify you must be fully disabled and the disability is expected to last a year or more.
Furthermore, your disability must:
* Meet the conditions as laid down in the “blue book”
* You cannot perform any of the last jobs you held
* You are not capable of working at a less demanding job
Financial requirements:
In the terminology of the SSA your income is considered “substantial gainful activity.” If your SGA is in excess of $1130 a month you are not eligible for disability benefits.
In addition to a maximum SGA you must have been paying FICA taxes for a specific number of years. The requirements are based on your age when you apply for benefits. To give you a rough idea, if you are 55 when you become disabled you will have to have worked for at least eight years, five of which must have been in the last ten years.
Applying for Social Security disability in Missouri is very complex; it is highly recommended that you consult with an experienced attorney.
If you are going to apply for Social Security disability in Missouri you may find that understanding the complexities to be extremely difficult. For a free evaluation of your case you are invited to contact Grundy Disability Group.
