If you are a dedicated employee, you should have access to all the benefits possible in the event you can no longer work due to an ongoing disability caused by an illness, injury, or accident. Luckily, both state and federal governments have financial protections in place for disabilities that keep you from earning a living wage.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides financial coverage for those who have worked legally for at least 5 years in the recent past. However, when filing a claim your work history must meet the minimum criteria for SSDI coverage.
While SSDI offers financial support for those who meet disability standards, filing an SSDI claim can be a complicated process. That’s why working with skilled attorneys like those at Casa de la Justicia is always recommended when filing for SSDI.
What is SSDI?
SSDI is one of several programs created by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that give financial benefits to injured workers.
SSDI coverage is funded by the payroll taxes that are collected by the United States government. If you have ever looked at deductions on your paystubs or W2s, then you have likely seen money withheld for social security. The idea with social security benefits is that the money will be available for people when it is truly needed.
If you are under 65 years of age and have become permanently disabled and can no longer work, you should look into the SSDI process.
Call us at 1-800-840-8080 Casa de la Justicia is here to help you with your Social Security Disability application.
How is SSDI Different from Workers’ Comp?
A common mistake is to confuse SSDI coverage with workers compensation insurance. Importantly, while workers’ comp insurance is offered to people from the first day they begin a job, SSDI benefits are only paid to people with a minimum of 5 years working and paying taxes.
While workers’ comp insurance covers common injuries where you might miss work for a few days or weeks, SSDI coverage is designed for those with more incapacitating disabilities.
Another important distinction between the two types of coverages is related to the nature of the injury. While workers’ comp insurance only covers you if injured on the job, SSDI covers you even if you are injured outside of work or develop a debilitating disease that longer allows you to do your job.
Workers’ compensation is handled at the state level, while SSDI benefits are overseen by the federal government. As such, you can think of the SSDI process as additional security for workers in the United States with serious disabilities.
What Medical Conditions & Disabilities Qualify for SSDI?
In their Blue Book, the SSA put together a list of medical conditions and disabilities that qualify for SSDI coverage. While a wide variety of ailments could get you SSDI benefits, some are more likely to be accepted by the SSA than others.
One of the keys to receiving the SSDI coverage is being able to prove that you have a serious disability. According to the Disability Benefits Help website, “physical disabilities are much more likely to qualify for disability benefits compared to mental disabilities, because physical disabilities are much more easier to prove and backup through medical evidence.”
Not only does the Blue Book offer a list of qualifying conditions, but it also discusses what evidence you need to provide to the SSA to receive coverage.
Medical conditions and disabilities that commonly qualify for SSDI include:
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Respiratory disease
- Blindness
- PTSD
- Kidney disease
Please note, there are literally hundreds of physical and mental ailments that might qualify you for SSDI coverage. Since the Disability Evaluation Under Social Security part of the Blue Book is expansive, a skilled attorney is critical for success in this process.
How Do I Apply for SSDI?
One of the largest hurdles for applying for SSDI is proving that you have worked the required amount of time to receive the coverage. Importantly, the U.S. government has devised a point system to determine who is eligible for SSDI.
According to the Social Security Administration website, “you must earn at least 40 Social Security credits to qualify for Social Security benefits. You earn credits when you work and pay Social Security taxes.” On average, you earn enough credits for SSDI coverage through 5 years of full-time work.
Apply with the SSA
If you are disabled to the point of not being able to earn a living wage, then you can apply for SSDI benefits directly with the SSA. If you have access to a computer, the SSA has an online portal dedicated specifically to SSDI applications. Otherwise, you can discuss an application with the SSA over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213.
If you only speak Spanish and need help filing an SSDI claim online, you can access a Spanish version of the SSA website here.
Work with an SSDI Attorney
While you are able to file an SSDI claim on your own, it’s advisable to work with an SSDI attorney on the process.
Not only can filing a claim and proving your medical and work history be complicated, but the application process must be handled within a specific time frame. In fact, almost 75% of SSDI claims are denied during the first round of the application process.
How Many Hours Can You Work on SSDI?
You are still allowed work while on SSDI benefits, but the amount of money you can actually earn is extremely limited. The SSA uses the term “substantial gainful activity” to decide exactly how much you can work while also receiving SSDI benefits.
According to the AARP website, “the SGA limit is adjusted annually to reflect changes in national average wages. In 2022, it’s $1,350 a month … If you make more than that, your application for SSDI benefits will be denied.” As can be seen, there is little opportunity to work additional hours while on SSDI.
Contact Casa de la Justicia Today!
If you are permanently disabled and can no longer work but have not reached retirement age, the team at Casa de la Justicia will get you the SSDI coverage that you deserve.
Please Contact Us with additional questions about the SSDI process.
