Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal government program that pays monthly cash benefits to people who are physically or mentally disabled and unable to work.
To qualify for SSDI benefits, certain requirements must be met; one of which is the length of time you have worked and paid FICA taxes. Along with the work stipulation, you also must suffer a disability that is included in the Administrations “Blue Book.” The process is complicated, and it is advisable to hire a Social Security lawyer.
Work Credit Requirement
Work credits are based on your annual income. The number of work credits necessary to be granted disability benefits is based on the age you were when you became disabled. The SSA has a defined scale; here is a typical example of how the process works.
If you became disabled in Evanston when you were 24 years old, to claim benefits, you must have six work credits, all of which must have been earned in the previous three years. If, on the other hand, you became disabled when you were 62, you need 40 work credits, half of which must have been earned in the 10 years preceding the onset of your disability.
Disability Requirements
Only individuals that are totally disabled can claim benefits. If you are partially disabled or the disability is expected to last less than one year, you cannot claim. The following also applies:
* Unable to perform work you usually do
* Inability to perform any substantial gainful activity
* Cannot perform other work due to your disability
If your disability is such that you are awarded benefits, such benefits are paid monthly. You will continue being paid as long as you do not improve and your disability keeps you from working.
In the event you are denied benefits, you have the right to engage the services of a qualified Social Security lawyer and appeal the decision.
If you are disabled, it is in your best interest to hire a Social Security lawyer. Contact The Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, Ltd. in Evanston at https://www.rabinsslaw.com.
