Frequently Asked Questions relating to Social Security Disability Income and Social Security Income.
What is the difference between Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
The Social Security Disability system is available to individuals that have worked and paid into the system and suffer from a "work preventing" disability. SSI, however, is a needs-based program available to individuals that are disabled and have resources that do not exceed certain income levels. Both programs have the same disability requirements, and both are handled by the Social Security Administration. To determine what benefits you may be entitled to, follow this link to the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool provided by the Social Security Administration.
What is Social Security Disability Insurance?
Social Security Disability Insurance is a payroll tax-funded, federal insurance program. Its purpose is to provide income to people unable to work because of a disability.
Who is eligible to receive Social Security disability?
In order to be eligible for disability benefits, you must have worked for five of the last 10 years and are currently unable to work because of a verifiable mental or physical impairment. Secondly, you must not be gainfully employed and can no longer do your job because of an illness or injury. The last criteria for applying for Social Security disability is that you must possess a disability which has lasted or is expected to last 12 months or more and prevents you from return to your job.
How do I apply for social security disability?
You must contact your local Social Security office and inform them that you wish to apply for disability benefits. They will take information from you and process your application. Call 1-800-772-1213. It is best to seek the advice of a social security disability attorney before filing.
What happens if my claim for Social Security Disability is denied?
If the Social Security Administration denies your claim, you have 60 days from the date of receiving the decision to file an appeal. If you fail to file an Appeal For Reconsideration within this time frame, you will have to start the process over, delaying the potential for a favorable outcome to a longer duration. You should always pursue the original application because benefits are only back-paid one year before the application.
My claim was approved, how long will it be before I to receive my benefits?
The Social Security Administration must review your file and update your records before sending you your checks. This process, takes approximately takes 6-8 weeks.
Do I qualify for my spouse's disability benefits?
You may be able to draw from your spouse's disability benefits if you are a widow or divorced and have not remarried. From the time of death of your spouse, you have a seven year period of time apply for benefits under your spouse's Social Security account.
Can my adult child qualify for a parent's disability benefits?
An adult child may be entitled to his/her parent's disability if the child is 18 years old, but not older than 22 years old and suffers from a condition sever enough from doing any type of work for which they are suited.
