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Social Security Disability - How To Apply For SSDI Step-By-Step

By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com

Updated December 07, 2006

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Step 2 of 7 - When To Apply

Apply as soon as you become disabled. Disability benefits do not begin until the sixth full month of disability. The waiting period begins the first full month after the date the Social Security Administration decides your disability began.

To be found disabled according to Social Security's definition of disability you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must be unable to do any substantial work because of your medical condition(s). For example, in 2007, substantial work means earnings of $900 or more a month. This amount may go up each year.

  • Your medical condition(s) must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least 1 year, or be expected to result in your death.

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