How Do I Qualify For Disability (SSDI) Benefits in Michigan?
- Royce Nunley
- May 30
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 5
Answering the most frequently asked question about Social Security Disability Benefits in Michigan.
It's the #1 SSDI question asked on Google:
"How do I qualify for Social Security Disability?"
If you’ve landed here, chances are you—or someone you care about—is facing the difficult reality of being unable to work due to a physical or mental health condition.
Before the search engines serve you hundreds of articles, ads, and pages filled with an overwhelming amount of technical information, there’s one thing you need to hear first—something no algorithm can truly deliver:
"You're not alone."
You might be wondering where to begin with the SSDI application process. Maybe you’ve just received a denial letter and are unsure of your next steps. Or perhaps you're trying to help a loved one determine whether their condition qualifies for benefits.
Whatever your situation, we understand how overwhelming and frustrating this process can be.
At The Nunley Law Group, we guide individuals and families through every step of the Social Security Disability journey—with compassion, clarity, and experienced legal support. If you're asking how to qualify for disability (SSDI) benefits In Michigan, here’s what you need to know to get started—and how to strengthen your claim from the very beginning.
Understanding the Eligibility Requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance
What Is SSDI?
SSDI stands for Social Security Disability Insurance. It’s a federal program that provides monthly benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a long-term disability and who have paid into the Social Security system through their employment.
1. You Must Have Worked and Paid into Social Security
To qualify for SSDI, you need to have earned a certain number of work credits. In most cases, this means:
You’ve worked at least 5 of the last 10 years
You’ve paid Social Security taxes through your paycheck
You earn up to four credits per year. As of 2025, you need $1,730 in earnings to earn one credit. Typically, 40 credits are required, with 20 earned in the last 10 years.
2. Your Condition Must Be Considered a Disability by the SSA
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability. To qualify, your condition must:
Be medically determinable (diagnosed and documented by a doctor)
Prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) — in 2025, that means you can’t earn more than $1,550 per month ($2,590 if blind)
Be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
The SSA maintains a list of recognized impairments called the Blue Book, which includes conditions like:
Severe back disorders
Heart disease
Cancer
Mental health disorders like depression or PTSD
Autoimmune diseases such as lupus or multiple sclerosis
Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if it significantly limits your ability to function.
3. You Must Be Unable to Perform Past or Other Work
After reviewing your medical evidence, the SSA will determine:
If you can still perform your past work
If you can adjust to any other type of work based on your age, education, and skills
If the SSA concludes that you can’t reasonably perform any job on a full-time basis due to your condition, you may be approved for SSDI.
4. You Must Provide Sufficient Medical Evidence
A common reason for denial is insufficient medical documentation. To strengthen your application, provide:
Medical records and diagnostic test results
Treatment history
Doctor’s notes describing limitations in your daily activities
Mental health records, if applicable
At The Nunley Law Group, we work closely with clients to gather the proper medical documentation that supports their claim.
Why Legal Help Matters
The SSDI process can be complex, and the majority of first-time applications are denied. Working with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney significantly increases your chances of approval.
Our legal team at The Nunley Law Group understands what the SSA is looking for. We help you:
Complete accurate and thorough applications
Gather medical records and other required evidence
Represent you in appeals and hearings if needed
Wondering If You Qualify For Disability Benefits in Michigan?
Don’t let paperwork or confusion stand in the way of the benefits you deserve. If you’re asking, “How do I qualify for SSDI benefits?" --let us guide you through every step of the process.
Contact The Nunley Law Group today to schedule your free consultation and get the help you need to move forward with confidence.
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| About the Author
Email: Royce@nunleylawgroup.com
Tel. 586-778-4555
Royce Nunley is the founder and lead attorney at The Nunley Law Group, where he represents clients in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Defense, Social Security Disability, and Personal Injury. Known for his client-focused approach and legal insight, Royce is deeply committed to delivering personalized legal solutions tailored to each individual's needs.
Royce earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, Cum Laude, from Wayne State University, and continued his education at Wayne State University Law School, where he received his Juris Doctorate, also Cum Laude. His academic excellence laid a strong foundation for a career marked by both compassion and tenacity in the courtroom.
Royce has been recognized for his outstanding work in Family Law, earning the distinction of Super Lawyers "Rising Star" for six consecutive years—2019 through 2024—an honor reserved for only the top 2.5% of attorneys in the state.
With a reputation for taking the time to truly und
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