When an injury, unexpected medical condition, or workplace accident leaves you without the ability to work, it can seem impossible to remain financially independent. Without an income, paying monthly living expenses can become unaffordable, which is why pursuing Social Security disability benefits may be worth exploring, if you qualify.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has two primary disability programs that issue monthly cash benefits to recipients. If your application is approved, you may be able to receive additional non-cash benefits, such as health insurance. A Spartanburg Social Security disability lawyer can review your eligibility and suggest which program for which you are eligible.
At Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, we understand how complicated applying for Social Security disability benefits can be. Right now, you may be confused about how to start the application process or may be dealing with a denial. Either way, our legal team can help. We can review your application for any inaccuracies or missing information, help you file for the appropriate program, and aid you through the denial process, if necessary.
We offer a free consultation, during which we encourage you to share the details of your situation. To get started, call Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC at (864) 582-1310.
You Must Have a Qualifying Disability
To qualify for benefits, you need to include information in your application that proves that your disability prevents you from working. There are many misconceptions regarding Social Security disability benefits, including the idea that your disability must be a lifelong affliction. This is not true. Your disability must impact your income for at least 12 months or result in your death. If you want to apply for benefits and then reenter the workforce at a later date, that is an option as well.
Proving you are disabled requires evidence, such as:
- Medical records, including any surgeries or medications
- Your medical history
- Mental health records
- Hospitalization records
- Vocational rehabilitation assessments
The SSA provides a resource called the “blue book,” which lists the physical and mental conditions that SSA views as disabling. When determining whether you are eligible for benefits, your legal team will take into account your medical condition and determine if the agency recognizes it as a disability.
You will likely want to apply for benefits as soon as you become disabled. This is because, according to the SSA, if your application is approved, you will only start to receive benefits six months after your disability began.
For a free legal consultation with a social security disability lawyer serving Spartanburg, call 828.286.3866
General Application Guidelines
When you submit an application for Social Security disability benefits, you will need to establish through the evidence you provide that your disability is so severe that it keeps you from working. There is another widespread misconception that if you are currently working, you are disqualified from applying for benefits.
According to the SSA, you can have a job, but it cannot qualify as “substantial gainful activity.” You are allowed to work, even with reasonable accommodations, as long as you are making less than a certain amount of money.
For example, in 2020, to qualify for benefits, you must be:
- Making less than $2,110 a month, if you are blind
- Making less than $1,260 a month, if you are not blind
If you are applying for benefits, the details of your situation will determine what program best applies to you. This is where working with a Spartanburg Social Security disability lawyer can provide clarity to your case.
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
When you work, you are subject to mandatory withholdings when you file your taxes. These contributions fund the SSDI program, which is a benefit that largely rests on your work history.
You must meet certain requirements to receive SSDI benefits, including:
- Having a minimum number of work credits
- Working for a minimum number of years
- A valid Social Security number
- United States citizenship (several exceptions exist)
The number of work credits and length of work history you need varies depending on your age. The younger you are, the fewer work credits you will likely have to qualify for SSDI. According to the SSA, the minimum number of work credits you need is six (if you are under 24 years old), while the maximum is 40 (if you are 62 or older). You can earn up to four work credits per year, earning one credit for the minimum amount set for that year.
When you are approved for benefits, your Social Security award letter will state the start date of your disability. The letter will outline your monthly and retroactive benefits you are owed. Retroactive benefits are paid in a lump sum.
A Spartanburg Social Security disability lawyer can sit down with you, review your situation, and from there, determine a plan of action to promote your application’s approval. To get started, call Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC today at (864) 582-1310.
Applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a resource-based disability program. When you have a qualifying disability and limited financial resources, you can file for these benefits.
The SSA is very open about the amount of money applicants may be able to receive if their application for benefits is approved.
In 2020, if you are:
- An eligible individual, you can receive $783 a month
- An eligible couple, you can receive $1,175 a month
SSI benefits may qualify you for Medicaid insurance, which offers hospital, medical, prescription, and dental coverage.
Spartanburg Social Security Disability Lawyer Near Me 828.286.3866
Contact Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC Today
Struggling with your finances because you have lost the ability to work can be stressful, overwhelming, and frightening. Filing for Social Security disability benefits can be confusing, as there are strict requirements you must meet to get approved. Working with a Spartanburg Social Security disability lawyer can provide valuable services that can help you understand your options throughout the legal process.
To learn more, call Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC today at (864) 582-1310.
Call or text 828.286.3866 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form