Meet the SSA’s Eligibility Requirements

For SSDI:

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Pennsylvania, you must meet the following criteria:

• Work History: You must have worked a certain number of years and paid Social Security taxes (referred to as work credits). Typically, you need 20 credits earned in the last 10 years, although younger workers may need fewer credits.
• Disability: Your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death.
• Income and Resources: You must not be earning more than a certain amount (known as the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit), which is updated annually.
  

For SSI:

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a need-based program for people with limited income and resources:

• Financial Need: You must have limited income and resources. The SSA evaluates your monthly income, as well as the value of assets like bank accounts, real estate, and other property.
• Age or Disability: You can qualify if you are 65 or older, or if you are disabled and have limited resources. Children under 18 with disabilities may also qualify.

Prove You Have a Qualifying Disability

Both SSDI and SSI require that you prove your disability prevents you from working. To qualify for benefits in Pennsylvania, your condition must meet the SSA’s criteria. This involves:

• Documenting Your Condition: Your disability must be well-documented by medical records from doctors, hospitals, or other healthcare providers.
• SSA’s Listing of Impairments: The SSA maintains a list of medical conditions that automatically qualify for disability benefits if they meet certain severity requirements. If your condition is not on the list, you can still qualify if you can prove your condition is equivalent to one of the listed impairments.

Gather Necessary Medical and Financial Evidence

To strengthen your claim, you will need to submit substantial evidence. This includes:

• Medical Records: Gather complete and up-to-date records from your primary care physician, specialists, therapists, or hospitals that document your condition.
• Work History: For SSDI, provide information about your previous work, including job titles, duties, and dates of employment.
• Financial Documents: If applying for SSI, include information about your income and assets, such as bank statements, pay stubs, and tax returns.

Complete the Disability Application

You can apply for SSDI or SSI in Pennsylvania online at the Social Security Administration (SSA) website, by phone, or by visiting a local SSA office.

Tips for Completing the Application:

• Be Thorough: Answer all questions honestly and thoroughly. Mistakes or omissions can delay the process or result in a denial.
• Provide Detailed Information: When describing your disability, make sure to include how your condition limits your ability to work and perform daily activities.
• Submit All Required Documents: Ensure that you submit all necessary medical records, financial statements, and work history documentation to avoid delays.

Follow Up and Stay Organized

After submitting your application, it’s important to follow up regularly:

• Check Status: You can track your application status through your SSA online account.
• Respond Promptly: If the SSA requests additional information or documentation, be sure to respond as quickly as possible.