Whether you were born with a disability or acquired one later in life due to an injury, illness or mental condition, individuals in Florida should understand what options are available when it comes to seeking benefits through the Social Security Administration. Even more so, applicants should understand certain facts about Social Security disability benefits.
What facts are important to know about SSD benefits? Social Security disability insurance is a program designed to cover and help workers who can no longer work due to a disability. So long as enough work credits are earned, a disabled worker can pursue these benefits in order to replace some of their lost income.
The Social Security Act defines the term disability rather strictly. It should be noted that the SSA does not provide benefits for temporary or partial disability benefits, which are provided for in programs such as workers’ compensation and veterans’ benefits. In order to meet the SSA’s definition, an applicant must be unable to work due to a severe medical condition that has lasted for at least a year or is expected to last a year or result in death.
Other facts to consider are that disability is unpredictable, happening to anyone at anytime or at any age. The payments received through SSD benefits are modest, designed to cover only the basic needs of applicants. The number of applicants qualifying for SSD benefits has increased over the past six decades. Finally, the SSA works to help those receiving benefits begin to re-enter the workforce without losing their current benefits.
Whether you are considering SSD benefits, are currently in the application process, were denied benefits or are in the appeals process, it is important to have a full picture of your situation and what options you might have. Thus, it is essential to gain advice and guidance through any phase of the process, ensuring your rights and interests are protected.
Source: ssa.gov, “Facts,” accessed Aug. 20, 2017
