Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be an overwhelming process, especially if you’re unsure whether you meet the necessary qualifications. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict rules and definitions for disability, and not everyone who suffers from a serious medical condition will automatically qualify.
At Diane Bross Law, we help individuals throughout Colorado Springs navigate the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) process. Here’s what you need to know to determine if you qualify—and how we can help you build a strong case.
1. Understand the Two Main Programs: SSDI and SSI
To determine whether you qualify for benefits, you first need to know which Social Security Disability program applies to your situation:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Based on your work history and the FICA taxes you’ve paid.
- You must have worked a certain number of years and earned enough “work credits.”
- You must have a qualifying disability that prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA).
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- A needs-based program for individuals with limited income and assets.
- You do not need prior work history to qualify.
- You must still meet SSA’s definition of disability.
Many people qualify for only one of these programs, while others may qualify for both depending on their situation.
2. Meet SSA’s Definition of Disability
The SSA does not consider short-term or partial disabilities. To qualify, your condition must:
- Be medically determinable, diagnosed by licensed professionals.
- Be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- Prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (working or earning above a certain limit).
SSA considers both physical and mental conditions, including:
- Severe back injuries
- Autoimmune disorders
- Cardiovascular disease
- Cancer
- Depression, anxiety, PTSD
- Neurological impairments
- Long COVID symptoms (in some cases)
3. Consider Your Ability to Work—Not Just Your Diagnosis
Many people mistakenly believe that simply having a serious diagnosis means they will qualify. But SSA is more concerned with how your condition affects your ability to work.
The key questions SSA will ask are:
- Can you perform your previous work?
- Can you adjust to other work, considering your age, education, and experience?
- Are your limitations well documented by medical evidence?
If your condition significantly limits your ability to sit, stand, lift, concentrate, or complete tasks consistently, you may meet SSA’s criteria.
4. Your Age, Education, and Work History Matter
SSA uses a grid system to evaluate your ability to adjust to new work. These factors include:
- Your age (older applicants often have an advantage)
- Your educational level
- The type of work you’ve done in the past 5 years
- The skills from your previous jobs that might transfer to lighter duties
For example, someone over 50 with limited education and physically demanding past work may have a stronger case for disability than a younger person with a college degree and sedentary work experience.
5. Medical Evidence Is the Foundation of Your Case
To qualify for benefits, you must provide clear, consistent medical records that:
- Confirm your diagnosis and symptoms
- Show how your condition limits your daily function
- Demonstrate ongoing treatment and compliance
SSA gives greater weight to long-term treating physicians and specialists. In many cases, a well-prepared Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form from your doctor can tip the scale in your favor.
6. Watch for Common Disqualifying Issues
You may not qualify for benefits if:
- You’re still working and earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold ($1,620/month for non-blind individuals in 2025)
- Your condition is expected to improve quickly
- You have gaps in medical treatment with no explanation
- Your documentation is incomplete or inconsistent
- You refuse prescribed treatments without cause
Even if these issues exist, they don’t always result in disqualification—a skilled disability attorney can help explain or overcome them.
7. Let Diane Bross Law Help You Qualify with Confidence
At Diane Bross Law, we’ve helped thousands of Colorado Springs residents navigate the complex Social Security Disability system. Whether you’re just starting your application or you’ve already been denied, we can:
- Evaluate whether you qualify
- Help you gather medical records and documentation
- Prepare a strong initial application
- Represent you at hearings or appeals
- Advocate for your rights throughout the process
We don’t get paid unless you win. That means we only take cases we believe in, and we fight hard for every client.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits is about more than just having a medical condition—it’s about proving that your condition prevents you from working in any meaningful way. By understanding the SSA’s criteria and preparing a strong, evidence-based application, you can give yourself the best chance of approval.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, or if you’ve already been denied, reach out to Diane Bross Law today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
