Understanding The Basics Of Social Security Disability Benefits
The application process for Social Security Disability benefits is overwhelming. It is common for claims to get automatically denied on their first attempt. At Robert J. Dodd Jr., Co., L.P.A., located in New Lexington, our lead attorney Maureen Dodd has over 25 years of experience helping those who are injured throughout Ohio recover Social Security benefits for their disabilities. If you or someone you love is struggling with the Social Security application process, our firm can help.
What Are Social Security Disability Benefits?
There are four types of Social Security benefits, including: retirement benefits, survivor benefits; supplemental benefits and disability benefits. Social Security Disability benefits are designed to provide financial assistance and support to those who cannot work due to a debilitating medical condition. To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must have been in an eligible job for a certain period of time and your medical condition must meet certain requirements. The two most common types of Social Security Disability programs are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). While many applicants qualify for both at the same time, there are differences between SSI and SSDI.
Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions About SS Disability Benefits
With a complicated application process that results in frequent denials, we know that there can be a lot of questions when it comes to Social Security Disability, qualifying for benefits and how to apply for disability benefits. Here, our attorneys answer some of the more frequently asked questions. However, we encourage you to take advantage of our no-obligation initial consultation. In that appointment, we can answer any additional questions that you may have.
Can I get Social Security Disability benefits for a partial disability?
No. There are no Social Security Disability benefits for a partial disability because there are other forms of assistance, like workers’ compensation or short or long term disability insurance for partial disabilities or short-term debilities and the inability to work due to a medical condition.
Is there a minimum age that I have to be before I can apply for SS disability benefits?
No. Unfortunately, debilitating injuries and illnesses can happen to anyone at any age. Medical conditions, like mental illness or cancer can affect people of all ages. In fact, one out of every four 20-year-olds will become disabled before reaching the age of retirement. Anyone who meets the eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability benefits can apply and receive support, no matter how old they are. Applicants for SSDI must be between the ages of 18-65 years old. But children can be eligible for SSI, and if you meet the income requirements and do not have coverage for SSDI, anyone under the age of 65 can apply for SSI.
Why can’t I apply for Social Security Disability benefits after reach retirement age?
Anyone who has paid into Social Security and has reached the age of retirement (which varies according to your age) is eligible for Social Security retirement benefits and therefore, is no longer eligible for Social Security Disability benefits.
Once my application is approved, how long does it start to get my benefits?
Once your application for Social Security Disability is accepted or approved, there is a five-month waiting period after the day your disability began before benefits will begin. However, if a determination is made that your disability began before your application was approved, you could be eligible to get payments for up to 12 months before your application was filed.
Can I still work if I am getting Social Security Disability benefits?
Yes. While a lot of people worry that if they work or attempt to re-enter the workforce, they will no longer be eligible for SS Disability benefits, the SSA actually encourages employment. Through the Social Security’s Ticket to Work program, available for recipients aged 18-64, there are free employment services and support so you can take advantage of employment incentives, like health care.
Questions About Disability Benefits? Call Today.
We know that applying for disability benefits is complicated and confusing. We help our clients navigate the process and make sure they understand the eligibility requirements and their rights for disability benefits. If you need help with the disability application process, call us at 740-693-1208 or send an email through our online form to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to answering any questions that you have.