Suffering a disability can be very life impacting. Whether an individual is born with a disability or it occurred because of an accident, the ability to receive Social Security benefits could really impact the future of the individual and their family. Receiving this type of benefit often means not worrying about issues such as finances. This is especially important for those unable to work due to their disability. Because Social Security benefits could help those temporarily or permanently disabled, it is important to understand the social security requirements.
According to the Social Security Act, there are very strict guidelines that define disabilities that could receive Social Security Disability or SSD benefits. In order to receive these benefits, the individual must be expected to suffer from this impairment for at least a year or cause their death before that timeframe.
Furthermore, the impairment they suffer must be so severe that it renders the individual unable to perform their previous work in addition to any other form of substantial work in the job market. Those apply with the Social Security Administration should also understand that there is no temporary or partial disability benefits, and a claim seeking something of that nature is not available.
Investigation is often conducted of those applying for SSD benefits and periodic reviews of current recipients are carried out to detect, prevent and prosecute fraud. Because this type of benefit is crucial and limited, it is important to ensure that those eligible for it have access to SSD benefits.
Those seeking or requiring Social Security Disability benefits should understand the claim process and the guidelines that allow them to receive this benefit. Individuals seeking to file a claim or those wanting to appeal a denied claim should understand their rights and options in the situation. This will ensure their application was properly considered and their rights and interests are protected.
Source: Tribune Star, “Social Security: Face, facts: The story of disability,” Brian Hewitt, Nov. 15, 2016