Social Security Disability: Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits, have been denied your initial claim, or have questions about any part of the process, please refer to this list of Frequently Asked Questions. If you have further questions regarding your individual Social Security Disability case, contact a social security disability attorney.

1. What is the definition of a disability?

According to the Social Security Administration, an employee is considered disabled only if he meets certain criteria. First, a disabled person must have a severe impairment that has lasted, or will last, for at least twelve months. Second, an employee must be unable to perform his work or the work he has done in the past, for which he earned at least $900.00 per month, in order to be considered disabled. Lastly, a disabled person must also be unable to perform other types of work related to his field of expertise or ability. If a person’s impairment does not prevent him from doing related work, he will not be considered disabled.

Learn more about the Medical Eligibility for Social Security Disability

2. How do I apply for Social Security Disability benefits?

Because the application process is different for each person depending on their individual case, it is recommended that you first consult a law firm that specializes in social security disability claims.

The application for social security disability can be completed online at http://www.ssa.gov/pgm/disability.htm. Alternatively, you can complete the application at your local social security office location.

3. What do I do if Social Security denies my claim for Social Security Disability benefits?

Thankfully, the Social Security Administration has a series of steps that can be taken to appeal the initial denial of benefits. Because the appeal procedure can be very complex and any errors can significantly delay the approval of your claim, you should first call an attorney to discuss the Social Security Disability appeals process to receive guidance and support during your appeal.

Learn more about Appealing a Denied Social Security Disability Claim

4. What are the different types of Social Security benefits available to me?

A. Social Security Disability Benefits (SSD or SSDI)

In order to qualify for SSD benefits, the injured worker must have been gainfully employed for at least 5 of the previous 10 years. It is also important to keep accurate, up to date medical records in order to prove your injury is preventing you from working your current job or another related job.

B. Supplemental Security Income Benefits (SSI)

Because SSI is a needs-based program, there are no work requirements that must be met in order to receive benefits. Instead, SSI benefits are awarded to disabled individuals based on the amount of their total household assets, including income and other resources.

C. Disabled Widow’s or Widower’s Benefits

These benefits are paid to individuals who are at least 50 years old and have become disabled within a certain time period following the death of their spouse. The late husband or wife must have also been working long enough to be eligible to receive Social Security benefits, as defined by the Social Security Administration.

D. Disabled Adult Child Benefits

These benefits are awarded to children over the age of 18 with a disability impairment that started before the age of 22. In order to receive these benefits, the child’s parent must be deceased or currently receiving Social Security Disability or Retirement benefits.

5. How much can I collect from Social Security?

The amount you can collect from Social Security Disability (SSD) depends on the total amount you have paid into the Social Security system. Benefits collected from Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will vary depending on the amount of total household assets and income. The more assets and income your household has, the less money you will be eligible to receive. A attorney knowledgeable in SSI can offer you more detailed benefit information after learning more about your individual case.

Learn more about the Amount of Disability Benefits You Can Get.

6. Will I be able to receive Health Insurance if I am approved for Social Security benefits?

If you are receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you can also receive health insurance benefits, but only after a two year waiting period. If you are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you are not eligible to receive health insurance benefits.