Applying for SSDI in Massachusetts: Eligibility Requirements
Applying for SSDI in Massachusetts requires you to meet specific eligibility criteria. You must first have earned sufficient work credits through working at your former job, and your work must have been fairly recent. You earn around four work credits per year. In most cases, people need 40 work credits to be approved for SSDI, and 20 of those credits must have been earned within the last 10 years. The work you performed must also have been at a job that was covered by Social Security taxes. This can include self-employment if you paid your self-employment taxes. In addition to the work requirements, your condition must be severe and persistent enough that it prevents you from performing a substantial gainful activity. Your condition must also be expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.
If you are disabled and unable to work but have not earned enough work credits, you might still be eligible for SSI. An experienced attorney can help you understand the difference between these programs and which one you might be eligible for.
Documents Needed to Apply for SSDI
If you believe you are eligible for SSDI, you should gather several documents and information before beginning your application. Gather the following information and documents before applying for SSDI in Massachusetts:
- Social Security number and date of birth
- Contact information for all of the health care providers and doctors who provided care to you for your condition and the dates you were treated
- Names and doses of all prescribed medications
- Medical records showing your treatment for your disabling condition
- Diagnostic and lab test reports
- Where you worked and a summary of your job duties
- Last year’s income tax return and/or most recent W-2 form(s)
- Proof of marriage if your spouse also qualifies for benefits
- Dates of birth and Social Security numbers for any immediate family members who might qualify for benefits
- Bank account information
While the Social Security Administration can request your medical records after you apply, it is best to get copies before completing your application. This can help to speed up the process, and the more proof you can submit to support your claim for benefits, the better.
The Application Process
You can apply for SSDI in Massachusetts in one of the following three ways:
- Online at ssa.gov/applyfordisability/
- By phone at 1-800-772-1213
- Going in person to your local SSA office
If you want to apply in person, you will need to call your local office to request an appointment. No matter how you apply, you should provide detailed information about your condition, the doctors who have treated you, any hospitalizations, and the treatments you have received. Once you finish the application, you can also authorize the SSA to contact your medical providers directly to get your medical records.
What Happens After You Apply?
After you submit your application and supporting documents, you should check on its status periodically. Make sure that you give all of the information to the SSA that might be requested so that a decision can be made on your application.
If your initial application is denied, do not give up hope. You have the right to appeal the decision. Many initial applications for SSDI are denied but are later approved on appeal. Make sure to be prepared for this possibility. If you receive a denial letter, note the deadline for filing an appeal, and promptly speak with an experienced SSDI attorney.
Talk to an Experienced SSDI Attorney
If you are disabled and no longer able to work because of your medical condition, you might be eligible for SSDI benefits. To increase your chances of being approved, it is a good idea to work with an experienced disability lawyer from the start. Contact Ellis & Associates for a free consultation at 800-MR-ELLIS.