Social Security disability is available to people who cannot work due to a medical condition. However, not every disabled worker is eligible. To qualify, you must have a work history during which you paid Social Security taxes. Your age determines the required length of your work history.
The process of trying to obtain Social Security disability can be confusing because the application is so complex. Many questions come up frequently during the process. Here are a few of them:
- What happens if the Social Security Administration rejects your application?
This is a common question because the SSA rejects a majority of the initial applications that it receives. The answer is that if you are initially rejected for Social Security disability, you can appeal the decision. It may take several attempts before you finally gain approval.
- What do you need to apply for Social Security disability?
You need to provide documentation of your disability, such as test results and medical records. You also need to give information about the income you received prior to becoming disabled in the form of W-2s and/or other tax forms. You need to furnish documentation of any other benefits you may receive, such as workers’ compensation, as this can affect your amount of SSD. You also need to provide a birth certificate.
- How much can you receive in SSD benefits?
The estimated benefit for 2020 is $1,258 per month. However, it depends on your total lifetime earnings. You may see an adjustment to your benefits on a yearly basis because of inflation.
- How long can you receive SSD benefits?
You can continue to receive SSD as long as you have a disability that prevents you from working, even after reaching retirement age. Your benefit amount will not change; the name will simply change to “retirement benefits.”
However, the SSA may occasionally review your claim. If you no longer meet the criteria because your condition has improved, you may see a suspension of your benefits.