Disability benefits are a form of financial assistance that is available to people who are unable to work due to a disability. There are several different types of disability benefits available, and each one has its own set of eligibility requirements and to know more about this get in touch with professional disability insurance providers. Here is everything you need to know about disability benefits, including the different types of benefits available, how to apply for them, and the eligibility requirements.
What Exactly Are Disability Benefits?
Disability benefits are a type of government-provided financial assistance that is available to people who are unable to work due to a disability. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is the federal agency responsible for administering the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, which is the primary source of disability benefits in the United States. Consulting with a social security disability lawyer can help you to understand your rights and options. Two other major programs provide disability benefits: the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which is administered by the SSA, and the Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits program, which is administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- In addition to these three major programs, there are several state-level programs that provide disability benefits. These programs vary from state to state, but they typically provide benefits to people who are not eligible for SSDI or SSI. Some states also have programs that provide benefits to people with specific types of disabilities, such as blindness or deafness.
Who Is Eligible For Disability Benefits?
The eligibility requirements for disability benefits vary depending on the program. For SSDI, you must have worked for a certain period and paid Social Security taxes. The amount of time you must have worked depends on your age. For example, if you are under the age of 24, you must have worked for at least one and a half years in the past three years. If you are between the ages of 24 and 31, you must have worked for at least three years in the past five years. And if you are over the age of 31, you must have worked for at least five years in the past 10 years.
- In addition to having worked for a certain period, you must also have a disabling condition that is expected to last for at least one year or result in death. The SSA has a list of qualifying disabilities, which includes conditions such as blindness, deafness, cancer, and cerebral palsy.
- For SSI, you must have a limited income and few assets. The income limit is different for people who are blind or have another disability. For example, the 2019 monthly income limit for a non-blind person is $771, and the asset limit is $2,000. For a blind person, the monthly income limit is $1,157, and the asset limit is $3,000.
- The eligibility requirements for VA benefits are different from those of SSDI and SSI. You may be eligible for VA benefits if you served in the military and were discharged under other than dishonorable conditions. You must also have a service-related disability, which can be the result of an injury, disease, or exposure to hazardous materials.
Who Isn’t Eligible?
There are several groups of people who are not eligible for disability benefits, even if they have a qualifying disability. For example, people who have been convicted of a felony are not eligible for SSDI or SSI. In addition, people who are currently incarcerated are not eligible for either program. People who are receiving workers’ compensation or other government benefits are also not eligible for SSDI or SSI. For example, if you are receiving benefits from a state disability program, you cannot also receive SSDI or SSI.
How to Apply For Disability Benefits
The application process for disability benefits varies depending on the program. For SSDI, you can apply online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. The application process for SSI is similar to that of SSDI. You can apply online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.
- For VA benefits, you can apply online or in person at your local Veterans Affairs office.
- Once you have submitted your application, it will be reviewed by a disability examiner. The examiner will consider your medical records and any other relevant information to determine whether you meet the criteria for benefits.
- If you are approved, you will begin receiving benefits. If you are denied, you can appeal the decision.
How An Attorney Can Help
A lawyer can help you in a number of ways. First, they can help you to understand the eligibility requirements for the various programs. They can also help you to gather the necessary documentation, such as medical records and work history. In addition, they can assist you in completing the application forms and submitting them to the appropriate agencies. Finally, they can represent you at hearings and appeals, if necessary. So, for example, if you are denied benefits, a lawyer can help you to file an appeal.
Why Disability Benefits Might Not Be For You
There are a few reasons why you might not want to apply for disability benefits, even if you are eligible. For example, if you have a relatively minor disability, you might not want to go through the hassle of applying for benefits. Additionally, if your disability is not expected to last for at least one year, you might not want to bother with the application process. Applying for disability benefits can also be a lengthy and complicated process. If you are not sure that you will be approved, you might not want to go through the effort of applying. Additionally, if your income and assets are close to the eligibility limits, you might not want to risk losing your benefits by applying.
If you are thinking of applying for disability benefits, you should consult with an attorney to discuss your eligibility and the application process. Additionally, you should consider whether the benefit is worth the effort, based on your particular circumstances. Make sure to weigh all of the pros and cons before making a decision.
