Seattle Social Security Disability (SSDI) Eligibility Lawyer

Determining whether you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be confusing and complicated, and it’s not something you want to be consumed with figuring out while you are dealing with a serious health condition and the stress of not being able to work. At Gustad Law Group, we understand the challenges that come with this process. Our team is here to guide you through the eligibility requirements, explain what the Social Security Administration (SSA) looks for, and help you gather the evidence you need to pursue benefits. With decades of experience, Seattle SSD eligibility lawyer John-Paul Gustad and his staff have helped thousands of clients in Seattle and across Washington understand and meet these requirements.

We know that every individual’s situation is unique. That is why we take the time to carefully review your medical history, work record, and daily functioning. Our goal is to ensure your case is presented accurately, thoroughly, and persuasively so that you have the best chance of obtaining the benefits you need.

Who Can Qualify for SSDI in Seattle

SSDI is a federal program designed to provide financial support to people who are no longer able to work due to a serious disability. Unlike needs-based programs, SSDI eligibility is tied to your work history and the taxes you have paid into the Social Security system. To qualify, you must meet several requirements:

1. Work Credits: You must have earned a sufficient number of work credits, which are based on your total years of employment and the Social Security taxes you paid. Generally, younger applicants need fewer credits, while older applicants may need more.
2. Medical Condition: You must have a physical or mental impairment that significantly limits your ability to perform substantial gainful activity. The SSA maintains a “Listing of Impairments,” but even if your condition is not on the list, you may still qualify if your limitations prevent you from working in any full-time job.
3. Duration of Disability: Your condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Short-term illnesses or injuries typically do not qualify, but long-term chronic conditions, progressive diseases, or severe injuries often do.

Meeting these requirements may seem straightforward in theory, but in practice, the process is often complicated. Even applicants with strong medical evidence can face denials if the SSA does not fully understand their functional limitations or if documentation is incomplete.

Medical Evidence and Documentation

One of the most important factors in SSDI eligibility is medical evidence. The SSA relies heavily on your medical records, test results, treatment notes, and physician statements to determine whether your condition meets their standards. Functional assessments that describe how your condition affects your ability to perform daily tasks, maintain concentration, or manage physical demands are equally critical.

Our team works closely with clients and their healthcare providers to ensure that all relevant evidence is collected and presented in a way that aligns with SSA requirements. We make sure the documentation not only confirms your diagnosis but also clearly illustrates the real-world impact of your condition on your ability to work.

Age, Education, and Work Experience Considerations

SSDI eligibility is not based solely on your medical condition. The SSA also considers your age, education, and past work experience when evaluating your claim. Older applicants may face stricter standards because it is assumed they have more difficulty adjusting to new types of work. Education level and transferable skills are also assessed to determine whether you could perform other jobs despite your disability.

Our Seattle team takes these factors into account when building your case. We focus on showing that, given your age, education, work experience, and medical limitations, you cannot perform substantial gainful activity in any available job. This holistic approach often makes the difference between approval and denial.

Challenges in Establishing Eligibility

Many applicants underestimate the difficulty of proving SSDI eligibility. Common challenges include:

• Gaps in medical records or incomplete documentation
• Lack of clear evidence showing how symptoms affect daily functioning
• Misunderstanding the SSA’s definition of disability

Even minor errors or omissions can result in denials at the initial stage. That is why having experienced legal guidance is crucial. Our team knows how to anticipate these challenges and address them proactively, increasing the likelihood of a successful claim.

How Gustad Law Group Assists With SSD Eligibility in Seattle

When you work with Gustad Law Group, we guide you through every step of the eligibility process. We start by reviewing your work history, medical records, and daily limitations to determine whether you meet SSA standards. From there, we help you gather the evidence needed to support your application, prepare your claim, and handle any requests for additional information.

John-Paul Gustad and his staff communicate regularly with clients to explain eligibility requirements, answer questions, and ensure that no detail is overlooked. We take a team-based approach, combining our knowledge of SSA rules with a deep understanding of how medical evidence and functional limitations interact in the claims process.

Frequently Asked Questions About SSD Eligibility

How do I know if I have enough work credits for SSDI?

Work credits are based on the number of years you have worked and the Social Security taxes you paid. Basically, you earn 4 credits every year and must have accrued 40 credits (including 20 in the last 10 years) to be eligible. We can help review your work history to determine whether you meet this requirement.

Can I qualify for SSDI if my condition is not on the SSA’s list of impairments?

Yes. Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if your medical condition prevents you from performing any substantial work. Our team understands how to prepare and present the evidence proving this fact.

Does mental illness qualify for SSDI?

Mental health conditions can qualify if they significantly limit your ability to work. We help document functional limitations and present evidence that meets SSA standards.

What happens if I am denied?

Denials are common. Our team can help you appeal, gather additional evidence, and present your case at the reconsideration, hearing, or federal level as needed.

Can I apply while still working part-time?

It depends on your income and the level of work you are performing. The SSA defines “substantial gainful activity,” and our team can help determine whether your current work affects your eligibility.

Contact Our Seattle SSDI Eligibility Lawyer Today

If you are unable to work due to a medical condition, Gustad Law Group is here to help you understand and establish your eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits. We offer a free consultation, and you pay nothing until after we are successful in winning benefits for you. Contact our Seattle office today to speak with an experienced SSDI eligibility lawyer who will fight for your rights.