FAQs About SSDI
Those who are disabled and have a work history may be able to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Generally speaking, SSDI benefits are available to those who have a long-term disability that is expected to last 12 months or longer or result in death.
This may seem simple enough, but it’s really not. Most people are denied the first time around due to various factors. Maybe they didn’t submit the right documentation. Perhaps the Social Security Administration (SSA) doesn’t really think they are disabled.
The process can be cumbersome and complex. You likely have questions about what to expect. Here’s what you should know.
Q: What is considered to be a disability?
A: The SSA will find you disabled if your medical condition significantly limits your ability to complete work-related activities. These will vary based on your job, but may include standing, walking, sitting, or lifting objects. Common medical conditions that are classified as disabilities by the SSA include cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory disorders, digestive disorders, skin disorders, congenital disorders affecting multiple body systems, neurological disorders, and immune system disorders. In any case, you must prove that your impairment will impact your ability to work productively.
Q: How much will I receive?
A: The amount of SSDI benefits you can receive will depend on how much you earn. You pay into the system through payroll taxes taken out of your paychecks. Most people collect roughly $1,500 a month. The most you can receive is $3,822 per month, but you would need to be a very high earner to receive that much.
Q: Can I work and receive SSDI?
A: Those on SSDI are initially approved because they are truly unable to work. However, if you can work to some degree, the SSA will allow a nine-month Trial Work Period to determine if your earnings are substantial. A trial work month is any month where earnings exceed $1,110. Once you have nine cumulative trial work months within a 60-month period, you will no longer be considered disabled.
Q: If I am approved for SSDI benefits, will I receive Medicare?
A: Normally, you do not qualify for Medicare until you are 65 years old. However, after 24 months of SSDI benefits, you will be able to receive health care coverage through Medicare. Your Medicare coverage will end if you return to work in the future.
Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits
SSDI is not an easy term to understand. Many people automatically think they qualify for benefits if they cannot work, but it’s much more complicated than that.
Don’t be one of the many applicants who get denied and wait a long time for benefits. Let a White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon answer your questions and advise you on how to get the benefits you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today by calling (914) 228-1770 or filling out the online form.
Source:
fool.com/retirement/social-security/disability-benefits/
