When a person is unable to work because of a physical or mental disability, this is more than an inconvenience. It often leads to hardship and financial struggles, especially for those who will have to deal with their disability long-term. In some cases, these Ohio individuals are eligible for benefits from the Social Security Administration.
There are two types of benefits available to you, Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance. If you have a disability and expect to have it for at least 12 months or the rest of your life, you could qualify for this type of support. It is in your interests to learn about these options and eligibility requirements, along with how you can secure the support you need.
Social Security Disability Insurance
There are benefits available to individuals with a valid work history who paid into the Social Security system through certain payroll taxes. It may help to understand the following facts about these benefits:
- You must have a valid work history of a certain amount of time in order to qualify for SSDI benefits.
- You must have a mental or physical disability expected to last for at least 12 months or for the rest of your life in order to qualify.
- You must wait at least five months before you can get these benefits in order to determine if your disability is genuine and long-term.
The amount of SSDI benefits available to you depends on your work history, along with what you paid into the system.
Supplemental Security Income
Those who are not eligible for SSDI benefits may be eligible for SSI benefits. These benefits are need-based, often for elderly individuals, people who are blind and disabled children. Consider the following about SSI:
- You do not have to have a specific type of work history in order to qualify for these benefits. Eligibility depends on financial need.
- The SSA will look at your property and resources when determining if you qualify, such as your assets and cash.
- Your personal vehicle will not count against you in these considerations unless it is worth over a certain amount.
Whether you feel certain you qualify for a specific type of benefit or you are unsure of where to start, you will find it beneficial to speak with an experienced attorney about your options. An assessment of your case can help you understand which benefits you may be able to get and how you can proceed with the application process.