Making heads or tails of the benefits offered by Social Security, a federal program in the United States, can be confusing and frustrating. Here’s some information that will lead to a better understanding of this program. Many people associate Social Security with retirement. While that is true, Social Security benefits are also offered to people with disabilities. That’s what this article will discuss.
Social Security disability benefits (or Social Security Disability Insurance – SSDI) provides monthly funds and in some cases medical insurance to people with disabilities who qualify to be on the program.
How do I qualify?
There are some specific requirements you have to meet in order to qualify for receiving SSDI benefits.
Work History: The amount of time you worked before you became disabled is a factor in whether or not you will qualify. In general, most people need to have worked for 10 years, though there are still ways to qualify if you’ve worked less than that.
Type and Severity of Disability: You must have a physical or mental disability that prevents you from working (see the Listing of Impairments from the Social Security website), AND that is expected to last more than one year or lead to death. You will need medical evidence, meaning documentation from your physician, in order to qualify.
Age: You must be under the age of 65.
If I qualify, how much will I receive every month?
The answer varies greatly as it depends on how much you earned while you were working. Your earnings will be averaged, and that is the monthly amount you will receive.
What should I do first?
The first step is to begin filling out an application for SSDI. Many people apply online (www.socialsecurity.gov) but you can also request a hard copy application that you can mail or take into a local Social Security office upon completion.
Though it can be frustrating to complete, the application is lengthy but not necessarily difficult. The Social Security website offers a Starter Kit to assist with the application process. On the application, you will need to answer questions about your ability to continue the work you performed before your injury, whether you can do any type of work, and specifics about your condition (such as difficulty standing, sitting, walking, lifting, remembering, etc.)
After your application is submitted, you will receive a letter indicating whether or not you qualify to receive benefits. Here’s a couple other things to keep in mind at this point:
If you do not qualify, you will be allowed to appeal the decision within 60 days if you want.
If you do qualify, you’ll receive information about the date on which you’ll begin receiving benefits. You will continue receiving benefits as long as your medical condition does not improve, and the Social Security administration will review your case periodically to determine if you are still eligible to receive benefits. Lastly, once you receive benefits for two years, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare.
For an even more in-depth look at this topic, check out Social Security Disability Benefits: The Ultimate Guide by MoneySavingPro.
And be sure to share this post with someone who wants to learn more about the often-confusing topic of Social Security disability benefits.