As a worker in America, you pay for Social Security through your payroll taxes. However, this payment doesn’t just go toward your future retirement benefits. The payroll taxes you pay also go toward Social Security Disability benefits, which can be essential if you become disabled and are no longer able to work. Understanding this part of Social Security can be difficult, and if you don’t have the right information then you may have problems collecting benefits later. Here are a few common questions and answers that many people have about these disability benefits.
5 Questions About Social Security Disability Benefits
- How Do I Qualify for Social Security Disability? If you are no longer able to perform a substantial amount of work due to impairment, then you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. However, there are certain requirements that must be met. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires that applicants to prove that they have a qualifying medical condition.
- Is There a Difference Between SSDI and SSI? Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is what most people are referring to when they talk about disability benefits. But sometimes people confuse SSDI for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Qualifying for SSI depends upon the applicant’s limited income and resources. SSI is also funded through general tax revenues. SSDI is funded through Social Security taxes, and you must have a qualifying work history.
- How Much Disability Benefits Will I Receive? The amount paid to a disability claimant depends on their average lifetime earnings before disability began. This payment can often range between $1,197 and $2,788 a month. As of November 2019, the average disability benefit was $1,258, but this benefit can be lower if you are receiving disability payments from other sources. (Investopia)
- Do I Have to Pay Taxes on My Disability Benefits? Social Security Disability benefits can be subject to taxes, but only under certain circumstances. If you have other sources of household income, your spouse’s wage for instance, then you could have to pay some taxes. However, SSI benefits are not taxed.
- How Long Will It Take for Me to Apply for Social Security Disability? If you have a medical condition that limits your working abilities and daily life activities, you could qualify for SSDI. It can take up to three to six months to get an initial answer from the SSA. If your application has to be reconsidered, it could take as long as a year to get a hearing in front of a judge. If the application is approved, then it could take another two to three months before checks begin to arrive.
Why Should I Consult an Oklahoma Disability Attorney?
Qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits can be a complicated process, and one mistake could result in claimants waiting years for approval. That’s why consulting an experienced disability attorney can be the best strategy if you need to apply for SSDI or SSI. If you have any more questions about Social Security Disability benefits, contact our Tulsa disability attorneys. Troutman & Troutman, P.C. can be reached at (918) 265-1404 today for a free evaluation of your case.
