Q1. Who is eligible for disability benefits from Social Security?
Under Social Security rules, you’re only considered disabled (and eligible for benefits) if a medical condition or injury is expected to keep you from working for at least 12 months. The disability can be a physical condition, a mental condition, or a combination of each.
Q2. I’m over 50. How does my age affect my disability benefits application?
Special rules apply to people over 50 who need Social Security disability benefits. Your age can be an advantage in winning benefits. Work with a lawyer who knows how to apply your age to your disability case.
Q3. Are mental illnesses eligible for disability benefits?
Yes. Mental illness is a frequently used basis for getting Social Security disability benefits.
Q4. What is the difference between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people who have a disability and can no longer work. You may qualify for this program if you’ve worked a long time and paid sufficient Social Security taxes. But the government denies most people who apply. If you haven’t paid enough money into the Social Security system to […]
Q5. How do unemployment benefits affect disability benefits?
Getting both unemployment and Social Security Disability benefits is tricky. That’s because qualifying for unemployment means you’re able to work. Qualifying for disability benefits means you can’t. In certain situations, though, you may be able to get both kinds of benefits.
Q6. Can I collect long-term disability with Social Security Disability benefits?
When you can’t work, you could get benefits from both private long-term disability insurance if you have coverage and the government’s Social Security Disability program.
Q7. What can I expect from the Social Security Disability process?
The Social Security Disability process includes looking at your work history and financial situation, looking at your health problems, filing an initial application and appealing if you are denied.
Q8. Can Dependents of Disability Benefits Recipients Also Get Benefits?
Family members of people who qualify for Social Security Disability benefits can sometimes get benefits themselves.