It might sound difficult to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) when you’re 50 or older, but it’s not impossible. The Social Security Administration (SSA) understands that as people age, it becomes harder for them to learn new jobs or adjust to different work settings. Because of this, the SSA uses more lenient restrictions and easier rules when reviewing disability claims from people over 50.
Understanding SSA’s evaluation process for older claimants
The SSA uses a five-step process to decide if someone qualifies for SSDI benefits:
- Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you make more than a certain amount each month, you are not seen as disabled. In 2024, that amount is $1,550 per month.
- Severe impairment: Your health problem must seriously limit your ability to do basic work tasks.
- Medical criteria: Your condition must be as serious as one listed in the SSA’s Blue Book of Impairments.
- Past work: If you are still able to do your old job, you are not considered disabled.
- Other work: If you cannot do your past job, the SSA looks at whether you can adjust to a new one.
If you’re over 50, the SSA uses a special chart called the Medical-Vocational Grid. This chart takes into account your age, education, and past work experience. It understands that older people may not be able to adjust to new jobs as easily. Because of this, you may qualify for benefits even if you can’t return to your old job.
Legal help and support in Washington State
Washington offers many services for people applying for SSDI:
- Vocational rehabilitation services: The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) helps people with disabilities get ready for work, find a job, or keep a job.
- Medicaid and Medicare: After you get SSDI for 24 months, you qualify for Medicare. Also, Washington’s Medicaid program, Apple Health, can help with medical costs for low-income people, including those with disabilities.
- Legal help: Groups like the Northwest Justice Project give free legal help to low-income people. They can help you with your SSDI claim.
Should you be denied at first attempt, do not give up. Your SSDI claim has multiple appeal levels after all.
What to do if your SSDI claim is denied
Many SSDI claims are denied at first, but that doesn’t mean you should give up. You have the right to appeal the decision:
- Reconsideration: Ask for someone new to look at your claim again
- Hearing with a judge: If you’re denied again, you can ask for a hearing and explain your case
- Appeals council: If the judge says no, you can ask the SSA’s Appeals Council to review the decision
- Federal court: If nothing else works, you can take your case to federal court.
It helps to have a lawyer guide you through the appeals process and make sure your medical information is clear and complete.
Fighting for your right to disability benefits
Applying for SSDI benefits at 50 years old and up may seem like a challenge, but it’s a lot simpler than you think. If you understand how the SSA reviews claims, use state resources, and get legal help, you can improve your chances. You don’t have to go through this alone— support is out there to help you every step of the way.