Years ago, the workers of America had it pretty rough. If they were injured in a way that kept them from working, then they had little hope of living independent lives. These people with disabilities were often institutionalized, forgotten, or worse yet, they became homeless. However, one of our great presidents wouldn’t let these people be ignored!
Guess Who’s Turning 60… Happy Birthday SSDI!
In August of 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Social Security Disability Insurance program into law. This program has now provided help to millions of Americans who have found themselves unable to work after a devastating injury.
The SSDI program helps people with disabilities afford their car payments, mortgages and medical services. However, the benefits of the program are not guaranteed to everyone. To qualify for disability benefits, you must pay FICA payroll taxes for around 10 years, and your injury must qualify under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines.
Unfortunately, over the past 60 years, it has become very difficult to have your SSDI application approved. Most applicants find themselves forced into the appeals process, which can often lead to a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. Officials will ask you for proof of your disability, medical records, and they may even ask you to submit to a physical examination. When dealing with this process, filling out paperwork properly and knowing what the court wants from your testimony is essential. And that is why you need to consult with a qualified disability attorney before you send your paperwork.
For more information about the Social Security Disability Insurance program, keep following our blog. And if you have any stories or experiences that you would like to share, head over to our Twitter and Facebook pages to share them with us. We would love to hear from you!