Social Security Disability
Various medical conditions can deprive someone of their ability to work and earn an income. In the U.S., when someone is disabled and can’t work, they may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Said benefits can help a disabled person and their family cover the cost of basic needs.
Social Security Administration (SSA)
The SSA is the federal agency responsible for reviewing Social Security disability claims and distributing benefits to those who qualify. Because factors ranging from public health trends to demographic shifts can influence the needs of the public, the SSA must routinely adapt to ensure it’s serving its intended purpose effectively.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
The SSA offers SSDI to individuals who have worked in the past and have paid into the Social Security system. Whether a disabled person is eligible for SSDI, and how much disability insurance they may be eligible to receive, depends primarily on the number of “work credits” they have accrued over their years of employment.
Be aware that SSDI isn’t without its limitations. For example, if the SSA approves an SSDI claim, typically, an applicant will have to wait five months to receive benefits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
What is SSI? More importantly, what makes it different from SSDI?
The primary difference between SSI and SSDI is that the SSA offers SSI to individuals and families in need regardless of work history. Instead of accounting for factors such as work credits, when determining how much SSI an applicant may be eligible for, the SSA will account for factors like income.
The Blue Book
The SSA’s Blue Book is a resource listing the health conditions that might qualify someone for disability benefits. If you believe you may be eligible for disability, you can start by referring to the Blue Book to see if there is a listing for your condition, and to learn about the medical criteria you have to meet to demonstrate eligibility.
The Blue Book may also be a valuable resource for those who review Social Security disability claims. They can reference the Blue Book to confirm whether, based on the information in their claim, an applicant deserves benefits.
Disability Claims Process
The specifics of the process when applying for disability benefits can vary on a case-by-case basis. Generally, though, the process involves these steps:
- Gathering all documentation necessary to demonstrate eligibility for SSI or SSDI
- Completing the application and submitting it along with the supporting documentation (this can involve submitting the application in-person at an SSA office or online)
- Requesting reconsideration, if the SSA doesn’t initially approve a claim
It may be necessary to appeal a claim at various levels. For example, if the SSA denies a claim a second time after a reconsideration, an applicant may appeal the decision at the following levels:
- Administrative Law Judge
- Appeals Council
- Federal Court
The Importance of Understanding Your Options
Remember, this is merely a general guide. If you believe you may be eligible for disability benefits, strongly consider speaking with a lawyer or other such professional. They can explain your options in greater detail and may even potentially increase your odds of getting disability benefits.
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