Social Security is a program by the US government that provides individuals with various financial and other benefits. If you are unable to work because of any medical condition, you are liable to receive disability compensation. You must meet certain requirements to receive the benefits. Not every individual with a medical condition is eligible for disability benefits. To be eligible, the medical condition should be long-lasting. If it is short-term or curable, then there are fewer chances of getting disability benefits.
Apart from the medical condition, Social Security disability benefits are largely based on your work history. There are two types of Social Security programs. SSDI is based on work history, whereas the other is based on financial income and resources.
The two programs are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). You can speak to a San Diego disability lawyer to determine whether you fulfill the conditions or not.
What is Social Security Disability Insurance?
SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, is a tax-funded federal insurance program. It offers benefits to people under the age of 65. The Blue Book, also known as the Listing of Impairments, lists the approved medical conditions for the benefits.
Qualification requires a disability that prevents you from performing previous tasks. According to the new 2020 rules, applicants should be unable to earn $1260 per month. An individual should have previously worked and earned credit points.
The required work credit points may vary for people of different ages. The applicants must have earned a few credit points before the disability phase and some after that. Speak to an attorney to determine whether you fulfill the eligibility criteria for social security disability or not.
You can still apply for social security disability benefits even if the Blue Book doesn’t list your medical condition. The only requirement is that it should interfere with your working abilities. If it affects your ability to work and perform the daily tasks, then you fulfill the criteria.
What is Supplemental Security Income?
The other program, Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is a program based on financial need. It assists individuals with limited resources and income. It is a need-based criterion, and there are no other criteria or work requirements for this program. You must be older than 65 years to be eligible for the benefits. An applicant’s total family income must be less than $3000 to be eligible for SSI benefits.
How do I apply for Social Security?
You will have to first determine which program you want to apply to. Most individuals apply for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. To apply for benefits, use the application form. You can either fill out the form online or visit the nearest Social Security disability office. Before starting the application process, you should consult an SSD lawyer. Legal assistance is essential in disability cases.
The number of people applying for disability benefits is increasing. Your lawyer will help you strengthen your case and obtain approval. With the assistance of a lawyer, the process will be much easier for you. Your lawyer will coordinate with the Social Security Office and help you complete the process.
Also Read: Challenges In Disability Claims Process: Common Obstacles And How To Overcome Them
