Step 1: Understand Qualifying Mental Health Conditions

In Wisconsin, recognized disorders include:

• Major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and anxiety disorders can qualify if severe enough.
• Reliable diagnosis by a licensed mental health professional is essential for your claim.
• Symptoms must substantially limit your ability to do basic work activities.

Step 2: Meet SSA’s Duration Requirement

Your mental health condition must:

• Have lasted or be expected to last at least 12 months without improvement.
• Be supported by consistent therapy records, medical treatments, and evaluations.

Step 3: Fulfill Work Credit Requirements

To be eligible for SSDI in Wisconsin, you must have:

• Earned sufficient work credits based on your age and work history.
• Recent work history is evaluated to verify eligibility.

Step 4: SSA Disability Evaluation Process

During the evaluation, the SSA will:

• Review comprehensive medical evidence and medical provider statements about your functional limitations.
• Assess your residual functional capacity (RFC) to determine if you can perform any work.
• Consider if your mental health symptoms prevent any job performance, not just your previous work.

Common Reasons for SSDI Denial

Avoid these common issues:

• Lack of thorough, documented evidence from mental health professionals.
• Conditions that aren’t severe or long-lasting enough to meet SSA standards.
• Failure to attend SSA-ordered or independent medical examinations.
• Insufficient work credits or employment history based on SSA guidelines.