Social Security Disability (SSD) is meant to be a benefit that supports those who are disabled as a result of work or other causes. Generally speaking, people must have enough work credits to qualify for SSD, though there are exceptions.
As someone who will rely on SSD, it’s important that you know how much you qualify for and if it’s going to be enough to support you. If it isn’t, you may qualify for further benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI). You’ll likely qualify for Medicaid, and you may qualify for other state programs, too.
How do you qualify for Social Security Disability?
To qualify for SSD, you need to show that you can’t work due to a medical condition that will last at least 12 months or result in death. You won’t qualify for SSD if your injury or illness is a short-term disability or partial disability. To get SSD, you must also be younger than retirement age.
How much will you receive in Social Security Disability benefits?
You won’t be able to know exactly how much you’ll receive unless you take the time to work out your lifetime average earnings. Then, you will have an estimate that you can plug into a benefits calculator. Some people will qualify for more, while others qualify for less. Your attorney will help you identify the earnings that go toward Social Security, so that you can predict how much you’ll receive in benefits and begin planning your budget.
Our site has more on Social Security Disability and what you can expect if you want to apply.
