Social Security Disability Eligibility: Top 5 Questions

Obtaining disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) is one of the most reliable sources of financial support for a disabled individual.

However, it is also among the most difficult means to get monetary assistance from the government. If you are a disabled individual who is curious about social security disability benefits, here are some questions that may be boggling your mind:


1. How am I going to be eligible? That depends on the disability insurance you are going to apply. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you should have been an SSA contributor for a number of years before you can receive a disability claim. On the other hand, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applicants should meet a fixed financial limit to be made eligible beneficiaries.

2. How much will I get? This also depends on several factors: first is how much you have contributed to the SSA; and the amount of your current monthly income.

3. How long can I receive disability benefits? For both SSDI and SSI, you will continue to receive benefits until your condition has improved. In SSDI, your disability benefits will automatically be converted into retirement benefits once you reach your retirement age.

4. Are there alternative disability benefits offered by certain states? Yes. California, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Hawaii offer State Disability Insurance (SDI) for individuals who have disabilities. Some companies also offer special benefits for disabled people.

5. Who can help me file a disability claim? If you have a relative who has already approved to receive disability benefits, you can ask advice from him/her. A disability attorney is also a valuable partner in filing your application.

Now you know how to begin your disability benefit application, your next step is to choose what kind of disability benefit you would apply for. Ask your relatives and a legal expert regarding this matter for you to make an informed decision.

Disability insurance claims are benefits that should be available to every disabled individual in the country. But because they are not, you will need to have a lot of determination and patience before your application would be approved. Remember, there are millions of other disabled Americans out there trying to get a shot at disability benefits.