Helpful Facts About Social Security Disability Benefits
Navigating the world of Social Security Disability benefits can feel overwhelming. Whether you’ve recently suffered a life-changing medical condition or you're assisting a loved one, knowing the facts about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can make all the difference.
At Nelson, Bryan, and Cross, we help clients across Alabama better understand their rights and options under the Social Security system. Here are some of the most important things you need to know before, during, and after filing for disability.
1. There Are Two Main Disability Programs
Many people are surprised to learn that the Social Security Administration (SSA) manages two separate disability benefit programs:
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Based on your work history and FICA tax contributions.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Based on financial need and limited resources, not work credits.
You may qualify for one or both, depending on your unique situation.
2. You Must Have a “Severe” and Long-Term Condition
To be approved for benefits, your condition must:
Be medically determinable by acceptable clinical and lab findings
Prevent you from working full-time (known as “substantial gainful activity”)
Be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
Common qualifying conditions include:
Chronic back injuries
Heart disease
Autoimmune disorders
Cancer
Mental health conditions (e.g., PTSD, bipolar disorder)
3. Most Applications Are Denied at First
Nationwide, about 70% of initial SSDI applications are denied. This doesn’t mean your case is weak—it often means:
The SSA didn’t have enough medical evidence
Forms were filled out incorrectly
Your work history wasn’t clearly explained
Fortunately, denials can be appealed, and many claimants win benefits at the hearing level. An attorney can help improve your odds of success by preparing a stronger case the first time—or fighting back if you’re denied.
4. Work History Matters
For SSDI, your eligibility depends on how many “work credits” you’ve earned. In general:
You need 40 work credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years
Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits
The SSA reviews your earnings record to determine if you qualify. If you’ve never worked, you may still qualify for SSI.
5. You Can Work Part-Time—But There Are Limits
You’re allowed to earn some income while applying for or receiving disability, but:
Your monthly income must be below SSA’s substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit (e.g., $1,550/month for non-blind individuals in 2024)
Exceeding the limit could result in denial or termination of benefits
6. You Can Receive Retroactive and Back Pay
If approved, you may be entitled to:
Back pay: Benefits starting from the date you became disabled
Retroactive pay: If your disability began before your application
These lump sums can provide much-needed financial relief, especially for those who waited months or years to get approved.
7. A Disability Attorney Can Make a Big Difference
Working with an experienced disability attorney significantly increases your chances of:
Approval on the first try
A successful appeal if denied
Proper documentation of your medical and work history
Getting the maximum benefits allowed under the law
At Nelson, Bryan, and Cross, we help Alabama clients navigate every step of the disability process—from initial applications to hearings and beyond.
Let Us Help You Secure the Benefits You Deserve
Disability benefits can change your life—but only if you’re able to access them. Don’t go it alone or wait until a denial to get help.
Contact us today for a free disability consultation. We’ll help you take the right steps, avoid common mistakes, and get the support you need.
