Anesi Ozmon offers Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD/SSDI) advice and guidance based on decades of experience. Our Chicago law firm has assisted clients in this sometimes complex area of law, and we boast a strong track record of success in helping clients gain approval for Social Security benefits.
If you have already started the SSD application process, we can step in, answer your questions, identify any mistakes or potential pitfalls, and help facilitate the process.
Our attorneys offer the information below for those with questions about qualifying and applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits in Illinois.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability (SSD)
In order to qualify for SSD, one's medical condition must be included on a list of approved medical impairments, expected to result in death, or prohibit any substantial gainful activity for a continuous period of at least 12 months. The latter requires demonstrated disability based on age, education or employment history. Essentially, one must show that he or she is incapable of finding any substantial or gainful employment due to a disability.
Many musculoskeletal disabilities are included on the list of approved conditions. If an injury rises to a certain level where you cannot walk or perform fine or gross motor skills, your injury should qualify. For example, a herniated disk that eventually evolves into a painful condition called radiculopathy or a fracture that did not heal correctly could be approved for Social Security Disability benefits.
People with psychological conditions have similar criteria. There are certain approved conditions listed, and if a condition worsens and meets certain characteristics, the individual may be approved for SSD.
When to Apply for SSD
You must have been unable to work for at least six months, with 12 months preferred, in order to qualify for SSD. There are exceptions for certain listed conditions such as end-stage renal disease (ESRD). People with these conditions can qualify immediately.
The SSD Application Process
Our lawyers guide clients through the Social Security Disability application process. The application can be complicated and cannot be completed online. We will ensure that your SSD application is completed and submitted in an accurate and timely manner. You will be able to view your application and track its status online. The main questions we will first ask you to determine if you should apply are as follows:
- Are you working?
- How long have you been unable to work?
- Can you do the work you did before your injury?
- Can do any type of work at all?
Contact Our Chicago Social Security Attorneys
At Anesi Ozmon, we have vast experience in handling Social Security claims. We regularly deal with the complex issues when helping our clients file for benefits and appeals. For assistance with qualifying and applying for Social Security benefits in Illinois, call our attorneys at 312-574-3378 or 866-610-6219, or contact us online to arrange a free consultation.
