People with critical conditions or disabilities in Washington can qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. These are programs meant to provide material needs for them and their families. However, not every person qualifies. Here are the people that do.

Who qualifies?

People who work in jobs covered by Social Security: You need to have sufficient work credits to qualify for Social Security benefits in Washington. You must have also paid Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) tax. These taxes are deducted from your paycheck and go towards funding the Social Security program. In Washington, the amount of work credits needed to qualify for disability benefits depends on your age. For example, if you are younger than 24 years old, you may need as little as six months of work credits. However, if you are older than 60 years old, you may require 40 work credits to qualify.

Persons with a qualifying disability: In Washington, you must have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. To be considered, your condition must prevent you from doing any substantial work and must be expected to last for at least one year or result in death—for example, cancer, muscular dystrophy, muscle sclerosis, and amputation of limbs.

Are you eligible?

If you think that you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits, the best thing to do is contact the SSA and set up an appointment. They will be able to help you determine if you are eligible and help you through the application process. You can reach them online through their website at ssa.gov or visit a local SSA office near you.

What to do if SSA denies your claim

Approximately 60% of first-time applications get denied. But you still have rights and options. The Social Security Disability appeals process has different stages, starting from a simple reconsideration to filing a lawsuit with the federal courts.

Don’t miss out on the benefits you deserve from the Social Security program. Gather sufficient evidence for a successful application process.