Before you can even consider applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you must ensure that you are eligible to do so. That is, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has certain eligibility requirements in place that applicants must meet. One of these eligibility requirements is whether the specific medical condition(s) that the applicant is citing qualifies for such benefits. Continue reading to learn whether your medical condition makes you eligible to receive SSDI benefits and how one of the attorneys at The Law Offices of Sheryl Ganger Mazur, who is experienced in SSDI eligibility in New Jersey, can help you in making this determination.

What are the most common mental conditions that are eligible for SSDI benefits?

Mental impairments may not be as evident as physical impairments, but nonetheless, they still affect your ability to carry out your day-to-day life. That said, examples of common mental conditions that are recognized by the SSA read as follows:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder.
  • Autism spectrum.
  • Early-onset dementia.
  • Learning and/or cognitive disorders.

Importantly, these mental conditions, along with many others recognized by the SSA, must be expected to last one year or otherwise result in death.

What are the most common physical conditions that are eligible for SSDI benefits?

Physical impairments are more commonly known to qualify for SSDI benefits. Examples of typical physical conditions that are recognized by the SSA read as follows:

  • Cancer.
  • Traumatic brain injuries.
  • Spinal cord or orthopedic injuries.
  • Inflammatory arthritis.
  • Autoimmune disorders.
  • Multiple sclerosis.
  • Ehlers Danlos.
  • Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome.

Similar to mental conditions, such physical conditions must be expected to last one year or otherwise result in death.

How do I prove my medical condition that is eligible for SSDI benefits?

To prove your medical condition, you and your medical provider must provide a sufficient amount of information on your application (i.e., medical examinations, surgeries, lab tests, etc). Then, the SSA will evaluate your application in the following ways:

  • They will review your nonmedical criteria.
  • They will review the severity of your medical condition.
  • They will determine whether your medical condition is recognized for SSDI benefits.
  • They will determine your capacity to engage in your past work.
  • They will determine your capacity to engage in other lines of work.

How do I prove the onset of my medical condition?

Well, if you have a medical condition and require SSDI benefits, you should start treatment or receive a diagnosis right away. Waiting until after the year of your disability onset can complicate your application. But rest assured, your current medical provider will still be able to provide the SSA with their expert medical opinion about the onset of your disability.

All in all, if you believe your medical condition qualifies for SSDI benefits, you must not hesitate in reaching out to a skilled New Jersey SSD attorney today.