Step 1: Understand Qualifying Mental Health Conditions

Common disorders that may qualify include:

• Major depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
• Symptoms must severely limit daily functioning and work capacity.
• All conditions require behavioral health provider documentation.

Step 2: Meet Duration Requirements for Disability

Your mental health impairment must:

• Be expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal.
• Have continuous medical and therapy records showing ongoing treatment.
• Include expert opinions on your functional limitations.

Step 3: Fulfill Work Credit Rules

To qualify, you need:

• Sufficient Social Security work credits earned by working and paying taxes.
• Most adults need about 20 credits in the last 10 years before disability.
• Credits required depend on your age at onset.

Step 4: SSA Evaluation Process

The SSA will:

• Review your medical history and mental health evaluations carefully.
• Assess your residual functional capacity (RFC) to work any job.
• Consider if you can do substantial gainful activity despite impairments.

Common Reasons for Denial

Watch out for these issues:

• Insufficient or inconsistent medical records from mental health providers.
• Mild or temporary symptoms that do not meet SSA criteria.
• Missing work credits or insufficient work history.
• Failure to complete required SSA medical exams.