Understand the SSA’s Definition of Disability for Depression

To qualify for SSDI benefits, your depression must meet the SSA’s definition of a disability. The SSA evaluates whether your depression significantly limits your ability to perform work tasks and if it has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months. Specifically, the SSA uses the following criteria to assess depression:

• Severe Limitations: Your depression must cause severe limitations in at least two of the following areas:
• Understanding or applying information
• Interacting with others
• Concentrating or maintaining pace
• Adapting or managing oneself
• Extreme Limitations: If depression causes extreme limitation in one of the above areas, you may meet the SSA’s criteria for disability.
• Failure to Respond to Treatment: The SSA may also consider whether your depression has not responded to prescribed treatment, making it impossible for you to function in a work environment.

Gather Detailed Medical Documentation

Your medical records are the foundation of your SSDI claim for depression. It’s essential to provide thorough documentation that shows the severity and persistence of your condition. Here’s how you can ensure you have the necessary medical evidence:

• See a Mental Health Professional Regularly: If you haven’t already, see a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist regularly. Ongoing treatment records show that your depression is being actively managed and monitored.
• Get a Detailed Assessment: Have your mental health provider provide a detailed assessment of your condition. This may include how your depression limits your ability to perform work functions, your treatment history, and your prognosis.
• Document the Impact on Your Life: The SSA will want to know how depression affects your daily life, including your ability to care for yourself, maintain relationships, and manage personal tasks. Be as specific as possible about how depression limits your functioning.

Complete the Application Accurately

When applying for SSDI benefits with depression, it’s crucial that your application is filled out accurately and thoroughly. Mistakes or missing information can delay or even result in a denial of your claim. Follow these steps to ensure your application is complete:

• Apply Online: The SSA’s online portal (www.ssa.gov) is the fastest way to submit your application. Be sure to answer all questions honestly and in as much detail as possible.
• Provide Comprehensive Medical Evidence: Submit all relevant medical records, including any therapy or treatment notes. This may include records from your primary care doctor, therapist, psychiatrist, or psychologist.
• Be Transparent: Be honest about your depression symptoms, the impact on your daily activities, and the treatment you’ve tried. Transparency will help build credibility in your case.

Meet SSA’s Disability Criteria

The SSA follows a five-step evaluation process to determine eligibility for SSDI benefits. The five steps are:

• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you’re working and earning over the SGA threshold, the SSA may determine you’re not disabled.
• Severe Condition: Your depression must be severe enough to significantly limit your ability to perform basic work tasks.
• Meet a Listed Impairment: Depression is listed in the SSA’s “Listing of Impairments.” However, you must meet the specific medical criteria, including documented severe limitations.
• Past Work: The SSA will assess whether you can perform your previous job. If not, they will move to the next step.
• Other Work: The SSA will determine whether you can adjust to other work based on your skills, education, and age.

Follow Up and Stay Organized

Once you submit your application, it’s important to stay organized and follow up with the SSA regularly. Here’s how:

• Create an SSA Online Account: This will allow you to track the progress of your claim and see if any additional documents are required.
• Call the SSA: If you need updates or have questions about your case, don’t hesitate to call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Be Prepared for a Possible Denial

It’s common for initial SSDI applications to be denied, even if you have a valid claim. If your claim is denied, don’t lose hope. You can appeal the decision and continue pursuing your benefits.

• Request Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, the first step is to request reconsideration. This means the SSA will review your case again.
• Request a Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), where you can present your case in person.
• Gather Additional Evidence: If appealing, make sure to gather any new medical records or evidence that may support your case.