Too Sick to Work? Consider SSDI Benefits
Many people are unaware of the many benefits of Social Security. Some think it’s only there for retirement purposes. Nothing could be further from the truth. Social Security provides benefits to the old and young. Even children can receive benefits if they are eligible.
Those who are disabled can receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, it can be difficult to determine if you qualify for such benefits, since the definition of disability may differ from person to person. Your doctor may consider you disabled, but you may not be in the eyes of the Social Security Administration.
To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must meet four criteria:
- You have an injury or medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or end in death.
- Your disability prevents you from doing a job that you would be qualified to do otherwise.
- There is no substantial gainful activity, meaning you are not earning a certain amount of income.
- You have a medical condition that is on the Social Security Administration’s List of Impairments, or a similar condition.
This may seem like a lot, and it can be for some people. Those who are disabled often see a specialist who must be able to provide sufficient medical evidence that they are in fact disabled. If you don’t, you will likely see your application denied. Many people give up at that point, but many will often see their application approved once they appeal.
Many conditions qualify as disabilities. Skin disorders such as dermatitis and burns may qualify. So does cancer and HIV. Also, the disability does not have to be physical in nature. Depression, anxiety, autism and schizophrenia and other mental disorders qualify as well. This is important because a lot of people suffer from these issues and they could qualify as disabilities if they prevent the person from holding down a job.
There’s another requirement for SSDI, though. You also must have enough work credits. You won’t qualify for SSDI if you have never worked in your life. You receive work credits based on how long you have worked, so if you haven’t worked that long, your monthly SSDI payment will be limited. So you definitely have to earn the benefits.
If you don’t have enough work credits, there is another option. You may be able to receive benefits from Supplemental Security Income (SSI), but you must qualify. This is a low-income program, so you must have limited income and assets to become eligible. If you are eligible, you’ll receive a standard monthly benefit.
Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits
You may be unsure whether or not you are disabled, but if you are too sick or injured to work, you may qualify for SSDI benefits. Don’t miss out on this opportunity.
White Plains Social Security disability lawyer Michael Lawrence Varon can assess your situation and determine whether or not you qualify for SSDI benefits. He can serve as your advocate to help you obtain the benefits you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call 914-294-2145.
Resource:
thesouthern.com/business/investment/personal-finance/too-sick-to-work-heres-when-social-security-disability-could-help/article_5a2acd50-4987-5b71-8a37-9a70bf0f113a.html
