Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be an overwhelming and confusing challenge. Since approximately 70% of initial applications are denied, you might wonder if it’s worth the effort. Attorney Mark Wilson, a skilled SSD attorney practicing in Ottawa, understands your concerns and is here to help.

Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are financial assistance programs managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). They provide income for individuals unable to work because of injuries, health problems, or other disabilities.

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Eligibility for this program is based on a person’s work history and earning record rather than financial need. It provides benefits to disabled individuals who have paid Social Security taxes through their work history, have accumulated sufficient work credits, and are unable to work for 12 consecutive months because of their disability.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): This program provides financial assistance to disabled individuals without sufficient work history to qualify for SSDI who are unable to support themselves financially. SSI is essentially a needs-based program that requires applicants to meet specific income and disability criteria to qualify for assistance.

Understanding The SSA Bluebook

The Social Security Administration’s Blue Book is a comprehensive guide that outlines the criteria used to evaluate an individual’s claim for SSDI or SSI benefits due to their disability.

The Blue Book is divided into two parts. Part A lists medical conditions, often referred to as impairments, and the specific criteria for each condition to qualify for disability benefits.

Part B provides guidelines for evaluating the severity of functional limitations caused by medical conditions that do not appear in Part A.

Generally, the Blue Book serves as a valuable resource for evaluating disability claims. However, its complexity and limitations can present challenges for individuals seeking disability assistance. Working with a qualified disability attorney like Mark Wilson can help you navigate the complexities of the disability evaluation process and increase your chances of securing assistance.

Common Social Security Disability Impairments

Some of the more common impairments qualifying individuals for SSDI or SSI include:

• Auto-immune/connective tissue disorders
• Heart-related abnormalities
• Fibromyalgia
• Amputations
• Digestive system disorders
• Neuropathy
• Respiratory system disorders
• RSD/complex regional pain syndrome
• Thyroid problems
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Vision/eye abnormalities
• Chronic kidney disease
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Chronic fatigue
• Autism
• Schizophrenia
• Agoraphobia
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

If you are diagnosed with any disabling condition that prevents full-time work, at Mark Wilson Law we can assist you.

Mark Wilson – Your Social Security Disability Attorney in Ottawa, IL

With over 20 years of experience working with Social Security Disability claims and appeals, Attorney Mark M. Wilson has successfully represented clients throughout, Illinois. He also has extensive experience in related fields, such as workers’ compensation and personal injury law. His commitment to justice and client satisfaction has earned him a place on the exclusive “10 Best Attorneys” list in Illinois.

We urge you to contact Wilson Law Office to get the representation you need if you think you may qualify for either SSDI or SSI.

Call us today at 815-408-6330 to schedule an initial free consultation. We look forward to sitting down with you and learning more about your case and planning a path forward together.