Even the most dedicated, hardworking people require help when something unexpected happens. This is especially true when an unexpected medical condition prevents full-time work. If you suffer from a severe medical impairment, you may wonder if you qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits. First, you must prove that you suffer from a severe medical condition which is expected to last for at least one year and prevents you from working. Short term disabilities typically do not qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits. Second, you must have either accumulated enough credits through FICA taxes for the last five to ten years or met the Social Security Administration’s need-based requirements. There are a few exceptions to this requirement, and if you are not sure if you meet one of those exceptions, please call our office for a free consultation at (800) 303-3030. Third, you must contact the Social Security Administration and file your application to start the process. You can file for Social Security Disability Benefits online by visiting www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability/ or stop by a local office and schedule an appointment. To apply for benefits using your phone, call 800-772-1213 during business hours. After you file your application for Social Security Disability Benefits, contact our office and we can assist you with the volumes of paperwork that the Social Security Administration will require of you in the future.