Two programs are available for social security disability applicants. However, the key to receiving benefits is actually being disabled as defined by the government. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a disability as a medical condition that prevents a person from working for at least 12 months or results in death. Of course, SSA must have the disability verified by medical records.
The Process
SSA has very strict disability guidelines. In fact, each condition has a list of specific criteria that must be met. Claims examiners in each state review applications looking for proof of disability. They are expecting to see things like ongoing medical treatment for the condition. That’s why Social Security Disability Attorneys are so valuable. These attorneys know how the system operates and work with doctors to make sure clients have all the medical records they need.
SSDI
SSDI or Social Security Disability Insurance is available for disabled individuals with work credits. This means the applicant worked for a certain part of the decade before becoming disabled. Further, the individual must have paid FICA taxes. If approved, applicants receive a check based on an average of their work income. The average check falls between $1,000 to $1,200 per month. In addition, recipients are entitled to Medicare.
SSI
SSI or Supplemental Security Income is a joint program of the federal and state governments. Applicants must be blind, disabled, or over age 65. SSI does have income requirements as well. For example, the state of residence determines an income cap for applicants. It’s generally between $700 to $1,400 per month. Additionally, individuals cannot own more than $2,000 of property. The property cap is $3,000 for couples. The applicant’s home and car do not count towards the property cap. Approved applicants receive $750 per month and couples get $1125. Further, recipients may receive Medicaid or food stamps.
Those who are denied benefits have several appeal levels. Initially, Social Security Disability Attorneys will file a request for reconsideration. The request is simply a review of the applicant’s file. If denied a second time, the attorney files a hearing request. Unfortunately, due to a backlog of cases, it takes quite a while to get a hearing. For more information, visit us. You can connect with them on Facebook for more updates!