Although most people are aware that social security disability insurance exists, many are unsure of what types of benefits exist and who they are for. The programs offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) offer benefits to certain groups of people and have different requirements, so it is important to know which one you are eligible for or seeking to be considered for when you are filing an application. There are two major categories of benefits, each with individual subcategories:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits
Disability Insurance Benefits (SSDI): This is the most important kind of Social Security benefit, as it covers over millions of people each year who were unable to work like they used to because of a mental or physical disability. Eligible applicants are those that have worked at least five years total within the last ten years before their disability began. Dependents like children could also collect if a parent qualifies for SSDI. The exact amount received is based upon an individual’s work history and earnings.
Disabled Widow/Widower (DWB): These benefits go to a widow or widower over the age of 50 that develops a disability within seven years of their spouse’s death. The widow or widower must have been married for a minimum of ten years to the person who has passed away.
Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC): These benefits go to the children found disabled between the ages of 18 and 22 if they are the child of a person who is receiving Social Security retirement benefits or disability benefits, or is deceased.
Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI) Benefits
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): These benefits are paid to individuals who have little income and who are disabled. These beneficiaries are usually blind, seriously disabled, or elderly. Unlike the other categories of Social Security benefits, eligibility for SSI is based on income, not you or your family’s work history. Eligible applicants may be able to receive SSI and other benefits like SSDI and food stamps concurrently.
Supplemental Security Income for Children: These benefits are a part of SSI and provide support for children under the age of 18 that have a physical or mental disability which significantly affects their ability to function. These benefits are determined by family income.
How a Memphis SSDI Attorney Can Help
Applicants for benefits provided by Social Security programs are often experiencing serious physical and financial difficulties. As roughly 60% of workers that apply for SSDI are rejected, it is extremely important to make sure that SSDI and SSI applications are properly prepared and entirely complete before entering the approval process.
As this process is extremely complicated, it is crucial to have an experienced advocate on your side. The SSDI attorneys at Morgan & Morgan’s Memphis office have a proven record of successfully serving the disabled and elderly of Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi.
Do not wait any longer; fill out the free, no-obligation case review form on the right to receive legal advice on your Memphis disability claim today.