Living with a mental or physical health condition can feel overwhelming. Maybe your chronic or terminal illness has significantly impaired various aspects of your life. Intense distress can often lead to co-occurring mental health conditions. If your condition limits your ability to work, Social Security disability benefits can help. However, there are a few things to consider before applying for disability.

How Does it Feel to Work With a Disability?

If you have a physical, mental, or cognitive disorder and experience problems coping with your disability, you are not alone. Many individuals with disabilities face challenges functioning on a day-to-day basis. Working with a disability can be even more burdensome.

It can be tough to wake up and start the day. Not just once, but every single day. The pressure of maintaining a steady work schedule can bring on persistent fears of unemployment. Individuals with disabilities tend to experience challenges gaining employment, leading to co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. Becoming a part of the team dynamic can also be tough. Aside from mental and physical strain, it is common for those with disabilities to experience the following: 

• Discrimination and stigma
• Insufficient workplace support
• Functional or cognitive limitations
• Medication side effects
• Chronic fatigue
• Sensory overload
• Isolation or inclusion

Who Qualifies for Disability?

According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), if you cannot work due to a health condition that impairs your ability to function on a day-to-day basis, you may qualify for disability benefits. However, your medical condition should be expected to last up to one year or clinically be expected to result in death. Not just any condition classifies as a disability. Your condition must also fall under the listing of impairments and meet specific medical criteria for evaluation, evidentiary requirements, and approval. The listing of impairments includes: 

• 1.00 Musculoskeletal Disorders
• 2.00 Special Senses and Speech
• 3.00 Respiratory Disorders
• 4.00 Cardiovascular System
• 5.00 Digestive Disorders
• 6.00 Genitourinary Disorders
• 7.00 Hematological Disorders
• 8.00 Skin Disorders
• 9.00 Endocrine Disorders
• 10.00 Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems
• 11.00 Neurological Disorders
• 12.00 Mental Disorders
• 13.00 Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)
• 14.00 Immune System Diseases

Understanding the Difference Between SSI and SSDI Before Applying for Disability

SSI and SSDI are two different types of federal disability benefit programs that you can apply for in the United States. If you are thinking about applying for disability, it can be helpful to understand the difference between the two.

According to USAGov, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is based on your work history, whereas Social Security Income (SSI) depends on your resources and income as a whole. For example, you may qualify for SSDI if you have worked for a certain period, contributed to Social Security taxes, or have a disability that interferes with your ability to work. You may qualify for SSI if you are disabled, are 65 or older, or have limited resources or income. To note, SSDI payments are typically more than SSI, and the approval rates are generally higher. 

The Benefits That Can Come From Applying for Disability

If you are experiencing problems with your condition or dual diagnosis, you likely understand the stress and financial strife associated with frequent visits to and from the clinic or hospital. Knowing that managing a steady lifestyle with a disability can bring on a great deal of stress, take heart in knowing that monthly cash SSDI benefits can help. For example, SSDI covers transportation, housing, and food expenses for ongoing stability.

Although living with a disability can present various challenges, some advantages of applying for disability can ease the burden. Free prescription drugs, fast parking, and certain discounts can be advantageous to those living with disabilities. Additional benefits that can come from receiving disability include: 

• Financial support
• Stronger sense of security
• Protection from employment pressure
• Increased retirement and survivor benefits
• Protection from debt collectors
• Healthcare coverage
• Cash benefits
• Tax advantages

Applying for Disability: How to Get Started

To get started, you can apply for disability benefits either in person at an SSA field office, by mail, by telephone, or simply file online. A Social Security representative may obtain your request and work to process your claim. It is common for applicants to get rejected. In this case, a Disability Determination Services (DDS) or an administrative law judge in an SSA office of Disability Adjudication and Review may analyze unfavorable determinations.

Applying for Disability: The Process of Proving You Are Disabled

Applying for disability may be the easy part. However, proving your disability can be a challenging and lengthy process. You can expect to wait approximately three to five months before a decision is made.

Nonetheless, the length of time significantly depends on how long it takes for a representative to retrieve your medical records or additional evidence to bolster your case. The disability claim process can take some time, and many individuals are denied benefits. Nevertheless, the SSA will use a 5-step process to determine your eligibility for disability benefits. Understanding what to expect in advance can bring a sense of control. To start, the SSA will ask questions regarding:

• Your work history
• The severity of your condition
• Pinpoint whether your condition falls under the listing of impairments
• Decide whether your medical impairments hinder your ability to do your past work
• Look to see if there is other work you can perform despite your limitations

Thinking Carefully Before Making a Decision

So, you’ve just been diagnosed with a medical condition that has significantly impaired your ability to work. Balancing key priorities such as academics, home life, occupation, and treatment may feel unmanageable. Your first thought may be to quickly apply for disability benefits.

However, even after doing your research, you may still feel indecisive about whether to proceed with the process. Breaking down additional considerations can offer reassurance in making the best decision. Further things to consider before applying for disability include the following: 

• Financial impact
• Alternative work options
• Trial work periods
• Psychological stress of the application process
• Legal protection and rights
• Reapplication or appeals
• Alternative support services
• Tax implications
• Mental or physical health changes
• The past 5 years of relevant work 
• Hiring a legal representative
• Social Security Credits