If you can not work a full-time job because of a documented disability or illness, you could qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. SSDI benefits can cover your monthly living expenses, help you provide for your dependents, offer tax relief, cover your medical needs, and more. It could be the financial help you need during a trying time with medical issues.
Monthly Payments From The SSA
The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers SSDI benefits. To calculate the amount of Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits you will receive is based on your average lifetime earnings and the taxes you have paid into the SSA. The SSA will also evaluate your work credits as well as any assets you have and any other income you receive. You are usually able to calculate your disability benefits by visiting the SSA website, www.ssa.gov, and creating an account.
Medicare Coverage
After two years of receiving disability benefits, the SSA will automatically enroll claimants in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance). Your premiums will be deducted from your monthly disability benefits unless you qualify for special assistance by meeting strict financial criteria. You may be able to sign up for additional coverages, such as Part C, which is an Advantage Plan, and Part D, which offers prescription coverage. You should visit www.medicare.gov to learn about the different coverages and the costs associated with Medicare coverage.
Dependent Benefits
If you qualify for disability benefits, your dependents may also be eligible for benefits. Benefits may be paid to:
- Children younger than the age of 18
- Spouse
- Divorced spouse
- Disabled child
- Adult disabled child – if disabled before age 22
Each dependent can receive up to 50% of your disability benefit up to the family limitation. Ask a Social Security representative about your family maximum payout and who could qualify for benefits through your claim.
Return To Work Benefits
SSA’s Ticket to Work program allows claimants to return to work while protecting your SSDI benefits. You are allowed to enter education and training to gain employment while still receiving SSDI benefits. You can also put some money in savings during this time to help with work-related costs. After several months, your benefits will stop when you show that you can work and earn a living. You can return to SSDI benefits during the next five years should you get to the point where you are unable to work again.
In Conclusion
You can start your disability claim online at www.ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213 and speaking with an SSA representative. Hard medical evidence and supporting documentation are essential to the success of your claim. Fill out the Free Case Evaluation Form to share the details with a disability lawyer and to get a free case review. According to SSA statistics, applicants who are represented by disability attorneys have a higher chance of receiving disability benefits. Get your claim on the right track, so you can access the monthly benefits you need.
