Social Security Administration

You may qualify for Social Security disability benefits even if you received Workers’ Compensation benefits.

If you have a disability from a work-related injury or not, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. Here’s a breakdown of key aspects of SSDI:

Eligibility Requirements

  1. Work History: To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and earned enough work credits. The number of credits required depends on your age and how long you’ve worked. Generally, you need to have worked five out of the last 10 years in covered employment to have insured status for SSDI.
  2. Disability: You must have a disability that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means you have a medical condition that:
    • Prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) available in the local, regional or national economy when taking into consideration your age, education and past work experience.
    • Is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
  3. Medical Evidence: You need to provide medical evidence from healthcare providers to demonstrate that your condition meets SSA’s criteria. 

Benefits Provided

  1. Monthly Payments: SSDI provides monthly cash benefits to qualified individuals. The amount is based on your average lifetime earnings before your disability.
  2. Family Benefits: In some cases, your dependents (spouse and children) may also be eligible for benefits based on your SSDI claim. These benefits can help provide additional financial support for your family.
  3. Medicare Eligibility: After 24 months of receiving SSDI benefits, you become eligible for Medicare, which provides health insurance coverage.

Application Process

  1. Application: You can apply for SSDI online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. The application process involves providing detailed information about your work history, medical condition, and how the disability affects your ability to work.
  2. Decision: The SSA will review your application and medical evidence to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements. This process can take several months.
  3. Appeals: If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process includes several stages, such as reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, and potentially further appeals.
  4. Fees: No fee is paid unless you are successful and fees are limited by Social Security Administration Law.

Feel free to call for a consultation concerning your potential eligibility.