The term disability refers to an impairment that affects a person’s way of life. Consequently, a disabled person is defined as an individual with physical, developmental, or mental conditions that restrict his or her ability to work, socialize with other individuals, and perform substantial gainful activities. It may be due to a congenital disorder, work-related accident, or post-traumatic injury. Depending on the severity, it may be classified as a short-term or long-term disability. An experienced disability lawyer in Jackson can help you with your claims.
This article covers the following information that will help you understand SSI and SSDI:
- What are disability claims and social security benefits?
- What are the differences between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
- Nature
- Concerning income or assets
- Medicare
- Why Do I Need a Social Security Disability Lawyer?
What are disability claims and Social Security benefits?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) facilitates disability programs that provide financial assistance to people with disabilities. There are certain qualifications and disability criteria that one must meet to be entitled to apply for Social Security benefits. It is important to check early on if your medical condition is covered and eligible for disability pay.
As in above, legal representation will increase your chances of successfully claiming disability benefits. Disability lawyers can help you with your application for Social Security benefits. If you or any of your family members have a disability or recently became disabled, contact a law firm that specializes in Social Security law. Reliable Jackson Social Security lawyers can help with filing for social security disability.
What are the differences between Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income?
The process of qualifying and applying for benefits under SSDI and SSI vary since there are several differences between the two. This is both in terms of the requirements for eligibility and what a claimant will be entitled to receive.
Nature
SSDI refers to work-based entitlement. An individual filing for disability claims who paid into the Social Security system for at least ten years may be eligible for SSDI benefits. A person who is disabled but has no sufficient work history will not be entitled to any disability payment under the SSDI disability criteria.
In contrast, filing for disability claims under the SSI program is based on financial need. A financially needy and disabled person doesn’t need to have a certain work record or a minimum number of payments into the Social Security system. To receive disability payments, one must meet SSI financial need requirements, which include a cap for the total amount an individual or a married couple can have.
Concerning income or assets
Generally, benefits under the SSDI disability program are proportional to one’s income. SSDI benefits are usually significant because they are partly based on payments made into the Social Security system. An SSI disability benefit can be likened to a fixed monthly income. SSDI benefits, meanwhile, depend on one’s actual earnings record. This means that a high-income earner who has become disabled will likely qualify for more benefits when compared to a low-income individual.
Meanwhile, since SSI disability benefits are need-based, proven financial need is crucial when claiming disability payments. There is a chance that an individual who gains substantial assets may no longer qualify for Social Security benefits. Given the risk of denial or disqualification, a reorganization of assets may be necessary to qualify or continue to qualify and meet SSI disability requirements.
Medicare
SSDI beneficiaries are automatically eligible for Medicare. Medicare coverage is automatic for people with disabilities who qualify for SSDI, although it is applicable two years after one starts receiving benefits.
Since Medicare coverage is generally less comprehensive when compared to Medicaid, most low-income disabled workers prefer a Social Security claim under SSI over one under SSDI. Despite the differences in the actual benefit amount, the more comprehensive healthcare coverage is appealing to those with low income.
Why Do I Need a Social Security Disability Lawyer?
Before you apply for social security benefits, first consult with a professional Jackson Social Security attorney. He or she can explain who qualifies based on set disability criteria and the actual disability application process.
It is advisable to hire a Social Security disability lawyer as early as possible. Disability cases can be overwhelming and the forms and paperwork that one must fill out can be quite confusing. Additionally, a reliable Social Security attorney can help you determine the strengths and weaknesses of your disability case.
The process of applying for disability benefits is complicated right from the start. As such, it is recommended to seek legal help from a disability attorney before filing for a disability claim. Our credible disability lawyers will help you understand the disability benefits you could be entitled to and help you get full disability benefits through your Social Security claim.
Contact us at Rollins Law Firm and schedule a consultation and seek legal assistance from our experienced Jackson Social Security lawyers.
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