Social Security Disability Insurance offers cash benefits to those who have become injured and are no longer able to work. However, not everyone qualifies.
To receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you must have worked long enough in a job that paid into Social Security. This is an important distinction to make because someone who did not pay taxes would not qualify for disability benefits, unless he or she qualified under a special circumstance.
The disability must last for one year or longer, and it must be a disability covered by Social Security.
These disability benefits can continue throughout the rest of an adult worker’s lifetime—for as long as he or she is considered disabled. However, disabled persons are encouraged to go back to work, and if that decision is made, there are some transitional benefits provided by SSDI that can make it easier to do so.
SSDI covers a wide range of disabilities that are considered severe and prevent people from working:
The Social Security Administration maintains a long and detailed list of the disabilities that can qualify a person for SSDI benefits. There are specific requirements that must be met for each, so ask an experienced SSD attorney if your condition is covered.
It can be difficult to prove that you both have an applicable condition and that it is “severe,” which is why so many people hire an attorney to help secure their benefits.
In addition to covering specific disabilities, SSDI provides benefits for the following:
The amount you receive will be based on your average lifetime earnings before you became disabled. The maximum benefit is $2,687 per month. You will also be enrolled in Medicare and have health benefits.
Even if you technically qualify for SSDI benefits due to your disability, you could have challenges in getting approved. Hiring an attorney to handle your case gives you the highest likelihood of getting approved and receiving as much money as possible on a monthly basis.
To find out if you qualify for SSDI, call 1-800-660-2270 to speak with Joel H. Schwartz, PC, or visit us online to arrange a free consultation.
