Scary Stories About SSDI You Can Ignore

When it comes to applying for government programs, you probably hear a lot of stories about how difficult or time-consuming it is. We have attorneys specifically committed to filing for Social Security Disability benefits and we know more about it than the people who pass along these stories. Not all the scary stories you’ve heard about disability insurance are real. Here are some rumors or false information you can safely ignore as you consider filing for SSDI benefits.

Everyone Gets Denied the First Time

You’ve probably heard this one, that when you send in your SSDI claim, it will automatically be rejected. It’s true that many claims are denied, mostly for incomplete paperwork or lack of supporting evidence. You can prevent a denial with enough preparation, and many denials are eventually approved after filing an appeal.

It Takes a Year to Qualify for Benefits

The only requirement for SSDI is that you be unable to work or perform “Substantial Gainful Activity.” The sooner you begin the process, the faster your claim can be approved.

Psychiatric Conditions are Not Considered Disabilities

This was true in the past, but things like depression, anxiety, and PTSD are considered disabling conditions if they prevent you from working at your previous job or holding regular work. A mental health condition meets the same requirements as any physical condition if you are applying for SSDI.

The SSA Does Not Consider Physical Pain a Disability

Another common myth is that Social Security Disability Insurance only recognizes visible or easily measured conditions. In reality, physical pain can be disabling if it prevents you from working or performing Substantial Gainful Activity. However, it may not be automatically considered alone. Conditions like chronic back pain, migraines, nerve damage, or fibromyalgia may qualify when supported by medical evidence.

Your doctor must document how your condition affects your daily functioning, not just the diagnosis. Strong medical records give the SSA a clearer picture of why you cannot work.

Going Back to Work Causes You to Lose Your Benefits

One of the most misunderstood aspects of SSDI is that you must never work again, or that working at all will cause you to immediately lose your benefits. SSDI recipients can continue to work or earn a small income while receiving benefits, as long as their income remains below a requisite amount; however, we still often recommend you do not try and take a job like this, to prevent any confusion or unintended consequences. Nonetheless, the “Ticket to Work” program is a transitional program that lets SSDI recipients keep their benefits while retraining for a new job or being reinstated to their old position.

Our Lawyers Can Tell You Which SSDI Myths or Rumors or False When You Try to Apply

At Jan Dils Attorneys at Law, we never want our clients to fear losing their benefits or refrain from applying for them in the first place due to bad information. Our attorneys can help you sort the myths from reality and get your application on the right track. Call us now to learn how we can improve your odds of getting approved.