When you suffer an injury that prevents you from working, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability benefits (SSD) from the Social Security Administration. Social Security Disability is an insurance system designed to help with financial hardships throughout life, not just after retirement. If you are unable to work due to a disease or injury, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits regardless of your age. Social Security Disability is for workers covered by Social Security who have contributed to a Social Security account while working for a specified period of time, usually 5 out of the last 10 years of work. Disabled widows and widowers of Social Security wage earners may also qualify Social Security disability beneficiaries receive two primary benefits: a monthly check and medical benefits. The amount of the monthly check is determined by a formula which takes into account the amount paid into Social Security and the length of time of employment.
The Social Security system also provides Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Supplemental Security Income provides disability benefits for low income persons not covered by Social Security. It can also be added to Social Security benefits which are lower than a certain minimum level. Supplemental Security Income does not require previous employment, and monthly benefits are based upon "need", considering the individual's other income and assets. Special rules apply for legal residents who are not citizens.
You may be eligible for Social Security benefits if you are unable to work due to:
- Breathing problems
- Life-changing or catastrophic accident
- Heart attack, stroke or other sudden event
- Chronic heart disease
- Obesity
- Mental and emotional disorders including schizophrenia, severe clinical depression and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Blindness or deafness
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Seizures despite the use of medication
- Occupational injury or illness including hearing loss and chronic back pain
- Cancer
- Immune system disorders
- Neurological disorders
- Extreme psoriasis involving hands and feet
- Multiple sclerosis
- HIV positive
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Epstein-Barr
- Other severe medical conditions
The requirements for qualification and the administrative process for appealing denied claims are complex and claims are often mistakenly denied or denied because of insufficient information. Working with a knowledgeable and experienced Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) attorney increases your chances of filing a successful application or appeal. We understand the challenges and burdens you face. We know you may suddenly find yourself unable to work, drive, or provide for your family. Our goal is always to secure the benefits you are entitled to as soon as possible. Contact Greenstein & Milbauer, LLP to discuss your Social Security claim.
