|
In order to be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) you must have worked enough during the years before filing for benefits to have contributed a specific amount to the Social Security system (through FICA taxes deducted from your paychecks). Social Security determines if you have earned enough to qualify for SSD by converting your earnings into work credits, and the dollar amount it takes to earn one work credit is calculated annually. The older you are, the more work credits you need to qualify for benefits. The only instance in which work credits are not a deciding factor in awarding SSD is in the case of the medically disabled adult children of someone who receives SSD. Adult children who were disabled before age 22 are entitled to receive SSD payments if their parent is receiving them, if they meet the necessary medical and non-medical requirements. Those who haven’t earned enough to qualify for SSD may still be eligible for disability benefits under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. SSI has no work requirement, but applicants must be able to demonstrate financial need. Unlike SSD, which is awarded to disabled individuals who are unable to earn a living wage each month (called the substantial gainful activity amount), SSI is awarded only to those who can prove that A) they are disabled, and B) their total income and assets are not worth more than $2,000. Income and assets can include just about anything of value. Wages, land, stocks, jewelry, cash, checking and savings accounts are all included in the count. Other disability benefits or workers’ compensation payments are also not exempt for SSI consideration, although your primary residence and one family car are. Of course, both SSD and SSI programs require proof that you have a severe, ongoing, mental or physical condition which prevents you from working. And when it comes to proving medical disability, your medical records are critical. A disability claim that does not have solid documentation from a licensed medical professional to back it up will not stand a chance, regardless of the claimant’s work history or financial status. 
Social Security Disability and SSI Disability Information
Disability Attorneys Help with Claims Free Case Evaluation |