What would you do if an injury or illness kept you from working for months—or even years? Could you support yourself and your family? Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) offers financial help to people in situations just like this. But what health issues qualify, and how do you know if you’re eligible?

At McChesney & Ours, P.C., we work with South Carolina residents who can’t work due to medical conditions. We’ll guide you through every step of applying for SSDI benefits so you can focus on your health and future. Let’s take a look at some of the basics. 

What Medical Conditions Qualify for SSDI Benefits?

To qualify for SSDI, you must have a condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) strict definition of a disability. Your condition must:

  • Keep you from working at any substantial level.
  • Last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months, or be terminal.

Some examples of conditions often approved for SSDI include:

  • Musculoskeletal Issues: Back injuries, severe arthritis, chronic pain.
  • Mental Health Disorders: Depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder.
  • Immune System Conditions: HIV/AIDS, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Neurological Problems: Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease.
  • Heart and Circulatory Conditions: Chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease.
  • Breathing Disorders: COPD, severe asthma, cystic fibrosis.

This isn’t a full list. Many other conditions, like certain cancers or organ diseases, may also qualify. What’s important is proving how your condition limits your ability to work.

Other Factors That Affect SSDI Eligibility In South Carolina

Your medical condition isn’t the only thing the SSA considers. Here are some additional requirements:

  • Work History: You need enough work credits, which you earn by paying Social Security taxes through your job. The number of credits required depends on your age when you became disabled. You also have to have enough recent work credits. Generally you have to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years.
  • Income Limits: If you’re working and earning above a certain amount (called Substantial Gainful Activity, or SGA), you may not qualify. For 2025, this limit is $1,620 per month for most people.
  • Medical Evidence: Your claim needs strong documentation, like doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment records, to prove how your condition prevents you from working.

These rules can feel confusing, but that’s where we come in. We’ll review your work history, income, and medical records to make sure your claim is on track.

How McChesney & Ours, P.C. Can Help You

At McChesney & Ours, P.C., we’re here to lighten the load. Here’s how we help:

  • Review Your Case: We’ll look at your medical and work history to see if you meet SSA’s requirements.
  • Guide You Through the Application: We’ll answer questions you have as you complete the forms and help make sure you submit all the right documents so your claim is as strong as possible.
  • Handle Appeals: Denied claims are common, but they’re not the end of the road. We’ll fight for you in the appeals process and represent you at hearings.
  • Keep You Informed: We’ll explain every step and answer your questions along the way.

Get Help With Your SC SSDI Application Today

SSDI benefits can be a lifeline when you’re unable to work. If you’re dealing with a serious medical condition, don’t go through the process alone. At McChesney & Ours, P.C., we know the ins and outs of South Carolina SSDI claims and are here to help.

Call us today for a free consultation. Together, we’ll fight for the financial support you need to focus on what matters most—your health and well-being.