If you live with depression, it may leave you unable to work. You may be able to claim Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI). To do so, you need to meet the specific requirements laid out by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
To claim SSDI, you must have paid into social security for a specific number of years, which may vary depending upon your age. How much you may receive relates to how much you have paid into social security.
You need to have had depression for 12 months or more. Not just any depression, but depression severe enough to prevent you from working or significantly limiting the work you can do.
For the SSA to accept that you suffer from depression, you must meet five or more symptoms on their list:
- Depressed mood.
- Diminished interest in almost all activities.
- Appetite disturbance with change in weight.
- Sleep disturbance.
- Observable psychomotor agitation or retardation.
- Decreased energy.
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness.
- Difficulty concentrating or thinking.
- Thoughts of death or suicide.
You also need to meet the SSA’s definitions of how it affects your ability to work. For example, being unable to understand instructions or being incapable of interacting with other people.
A San Diego SSDI attorney can increase your chances of getting the benefits you need. It is never easy to prove your depression or the limitations it places upon you. Your attorney can help you gather the correct paperwork and evidence and complete the form correctly. If your claim is denied, they can help you challenge the decision.