Though most disability applications are denied by the Social Security Administration (SSA), certain signs can indicate an increased chance of approval. Although these indicators cannot provide guarantees, they can serve as helpful hints.
As an illustration, if your medical evidence corroborates an impairment listed in the Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book, that’s one surefire indicator you will be approved for disability benefits.
Signs That You Will Be Approved For Disability

Here are some signs that you may be approved for disability benefits:
You Have Day-To-Day Difficulties
Social Security Administration (SSA) typically denies disability claims. But there may be signs that could indicate yours might be approved.
If your medical condition prevents you from working and causes you to earn below the set Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits, disability benefits may be appropriate. Furthermore, those over 50 may have greater odds of approval.
An experienced disability attorney can also increase your chances of approval by gathering medical evidence and submitting it directly to Social Security Administration (SSA). Furthermore, they can advise you what to do if your claim is denied as well as how you can appeal the decision – something many claimants do themselves!
You Have Sufficient Medical Evidence
When applying for disability benefits, medical records play an integral part. The Social Security Administration looks for specific test results to substantiate claims of serious and chronic health conditions.
Medical evidence comes in many forms, from physical examination and treatment notes to mental health assessments and bloodwork panels. But the most useful documents come from your primary doctor who sees you regularly; the Social Security Administration gives more weight to their opinions than to those from specialists who visit infrequently.
SSA will require a consultative examination if there is insufficient medical evidence in your file to support your claim of disability. Examiners conducting these exams usually come from fields unrelated to any potential impairment(s). Unfortunately, such an exam often ends up leading to denial of disability benefits by the Social Security Administration.
You Have Missed Work for at Least 12 Consecutive Months
Lacking work for at least a year due to your disabling condition is one telltale sign of approval for disability benefits. Submit documents showing your absence during this time – pay stubs and bank statements can provide evidence.
When determining eligibility for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration also considers your physical residual functional capacity. If you cannot perform any physically demanding jobs such as your prior occupation or any new type of physical work that you need to complete for any other reason, such as any new ones being developed in your field, disability benefits will likely be granted to you.
Hiring an experienced SSD attorney is another effective way of increasing the odds of your disability claim success. By consulting a lawyer experienced in SSD law, the chances of approval increase either during initial application or appeal before an Administrative Law Judge.

You Have a Signed Document by Your Physician
Disability application processes can be lengthy and taxing for applicants. But with proper preparation and meeting specific indicators or criteria, applicants have an increased chance of approval for benefits.
Include having a doctor who is willing to submit thorough documentation regarding your symptoms and limitations, as well as missing work for at least 12 consecutive months due to disability.
Consultative exams are another useful indicator for disability claims. Conducted by a physician with expertise treating conditions similar to yours that could make working impossible, this document increases your odds of approval from Social Security Administration’s Blue Book.
You Match the SSA’s Blue Book
There are certain indicators and criteria which indicate an increased probability of being approved for disability benefits; these do not guarantee approval; for instance, being listed in the Social Security Administration Blue Book doesn’t automatically make you disabled and does not mean you will necessarily qualify for disability payments.
Staying in the hospital to address your condition is another positive indicator. Stays allow hospitalists to demonstrate the severity of your illness and how it impedes on your ability to work.
If your medical conditions prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months, and prevent you from engaging in significant gainful activity for this amount of time, then this may constitute grounds for filing a disability claim. Keep in mind, though, every case differs; no guarantees can be given.
What Is the Difference Between SSD and SSI?
SSD (Social Security Disability) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income) have a key distinction – the criteria for qualifying individuals into these programs. Let’s delve into these differences:
SSD (Social Security Disability):
In the determination of eligibility, one’s qualification hinges upon the accumulation of work credits acquired through the diligent payment of Social Security taxes.
Applicants must possess a work history deemed sufficient and have accumulated adequate credits to ensure eligibility for insurance coverage.
The disability must meet the definition specified in the Social Security Act. To establish the disability, it is necessary to provide medical documentation and evidence.
SSD benefits come with work requirements. This means that applicants must have a work history and have made contributions to the Social Security system.
SSD benefits are not based on income or resources.
The Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits are determined by assessing an individual’s employment background and earnings.

SSI (Supplemental Security Income):
Qualification for need-based assistance is determined by several factors, including limited income, resources, age, and disability.
SSI benefits do not require recipients to work. Those who have never had paid employment or have not earned enough work credits for SSD benefits might still be eligible for SSI.
SSI benefits are specifically designed to support individuals with disabilities who have limited income and resources.
The financial eligibility requirements for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be quite strict. To qualify, applicants must satisfy both income and asset guidelines.
In most states, individuals receiving SSI benefits may automatically qualify for healthcare coverage through Medicaid.
It is worth noting that certain individuals may qualify to receive both Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits if they meet the eligibility requirements for both programs.
This particular circumstance is referred to as a “concurrent claim“. Seeking advice from a legal professional or disability advocate can offer additional guidance on the specific eligibility criteria and application process for acquiring SSD and SSI benefits.
How Do You Apply for SSD and SSI Benefits?
To apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, individuals can follow these steps.
Applying for SSD Benefits:

To determine your eligibility for SSD benefits, it is important to check if you have a sufficient work record and have earned enough work credits to be insured.
To gather documentation, individuals should collect all the necessary medical records and evidence that can support their disability claim. This includes obtaining medical records, test results, and reports from healthcare professionals.
To apply for SSD benefits, individuals have two convenient options. They can complete the application process either online through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website or by calling the SSA’s toll-free number. The online application is easily accessible at www.ssa.gov.
To complete your application, please ensure that you provide all the necessary information accurately. Fill out the application form with detailed and truthful details about yourself, including your work history and any relevant medical information related to your disability. Additionally, remember to attach any required supporting documentation.
The application should be submitted once it is completed. You can submit the application either online or by mail to your local Social Security office.
Follow up on your application by checking for a confirmation from the SSA after submission. It is important to keep tabs on your application status and provide any additional documentation or information requested by the SSA.
Applying for SSI Benefits:
To check eligibility for SSI benefits, individuals should determine if they meet the income and resource guidelines. It’s important to note that SSI benefits are need-based and specifically designed for individuals with limited income and resources.
To gather the necessary documentation, one should collect all financial and personal information. This includes income statements, bank statements, proof of resources, as well as any relevant details about your disability and medical records.
To complete your application for SSI benefits, there are two options available. Firstly, you can conveniently apply online through the SSA website. Alternatively, you can also apply by contacting the SSA’s toll-free number provided. For easy access to the online application, simply visit www.ssa.gov.
To complete the application, make sure to provide all the necessary details accurately and thoroughly. This includes information concerning your financial situation, personal data, as well as any relevant documentation that supports your claim or case.
To complete the application process, follow these steps: First, ensure that you have filled out all the necessary information on the application form. Once you have completed it, there are two options for submitting your application.
Follow up on your application by keeping track of the status and promptly providing any additional documentation or information requested by the SSA. After submitting your application, expect a confirmation email from the SSA to acknowledge receipt.
It is worth noting that the application process for SSD and SSI benefits can be quite intricate. To ensure that you provide all necessary information and meet eligibility requirements, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from a legal professional or disability advocate.