Social Security Disability is a claim through the federal Social Security Administration for monetary and insurance benefits due to a physical or mental health issue. Injured persons, if disabled under Social Security’s definition, file claims for one of four benefit types:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Disabled Widows and Widowers Benefits (DWB)
Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC)
All four benefit types require the claimant proving that he or she is disabled. SSDI eligibility and benefits are dependent upon the claimant’s contribution to Social Security. SSI is dependent on the claimant’s financial need. Both DWB and DAC are paid based on a separate person’s contribution to Social Security.
SSI recipients also qualify for Medicaid. SSDI recipients will receive Medicaid benefits during the first two years, then receive Medicare hospital insurance at no cost and Medicare medical insurance at a monthly premium.
The Social Security definition of disabled requires the person’s specific disability to last for at least one year or result in death. Applicants who are working may have their income figured into the calculation; for example, SSDI applicants who are working and earning more than $1,090.00 per month are, generally, not disabled under the definition. While some conditions are considered disabilities by definition, others will require the applicant to show that they cannot work.
Generally speaking, initial claims for disability are often denied. Denied claims may be reconsidered or appealed. Appeals require hearings before an administrative law judge or federal court. This process can be stressful and overwhelming. Our Social Security Attorney, Ronald T. Lawrence, II, has pursued hundreds of Social Security Disability cases. His knowledge and skills allow him to guide your through the red tape to a resolution of your Social Security Disability claim.