What are the legal requirements to qualify for disability benefits?
In Washington, the legal requirements to qualify for disability benefits depend on the type of benefits you are trying to receive. Generally speaking, to receive disability benefits in Washington, individuals must prove they are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. To do so, individuals must furnish medical records or other proof from a certified professional that documents the individual’s disability. Additionally, applicants must be a legal resident of Washington and meet certain financial criteria. For Social Security disability benefits, applicants must have at least 20 credits of work in the three years prior to applying for the benefit. Those credits must have been earned in a job that paid into the Social Security system. Additionally, applicants must also demonstrate that they cannot perform a job they have previously held due to their disability, nor any other job due to their disability. For long-term disability benefits, there is typically a waiting period before applicants become eligible. During that time, individuals must provide proof that they meet eligibility standards. In addition to meeting these criteria, applicants may also be required to pass a medical review or evaluation conducted by the Social Security Administration or the insurance company offering the long-term disability benefit. The review or evaluation may involve providing additional documentation of the individual’s disability, including medical records or physical exams.
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