If you have recently been diagnosed with a permanent disability or chronic illness that has left you unable to work, it is probably time for you to consider applying for social security benefits. Unfortunately, there are numerous misconceptions about social security benefits, and it is not always clear that qualifying for either can be quite challenging. Therefore, when you need to have a better understanding of the benefits that you are applying for, it is a good idea to consider the information shared below.

Should You Apply For Social Security Disability Insurance?

Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a policy funded each time that your paycheck reflects that a sum has been taken out for the social security taxes. Alternatively, self-employed persons earn their eligibility when they pay into that fund on their income tax returns. Some people, such as homemakers, who have not worked outside the home, but are married to someone who was the support of the household may also be eligible for this benefit.

Regardless, it can be compared to a bank account that you have contributed small amounts to from every paycheck you have ever received. Since even a few dollars at a time can add up to a significant sum of money, when you quit working, there is likely to be a large sum of money waiting for you. Individuals who work less may not have as big of a payout waiting for them as someone who earned more and therefore, their expected payments will often be lower. In 2017, it has been estimated that the average SSDI payment is $1171 per month, but many variables will impact the final determination of those benefits.

When you realize that the payments you made into social security classify as credits and those credits determine the approximate amount of your payments when you can no longer work, you will have a basic understanding of this program. Since income limits do not apply, it is not a welfare program and instead, functions like a long-term savings account that sends you monthly payments after retirement. If your disability or disease occurs before the assumed retirement age of 65 and you have worked much of your life, you may be a candidate for SSDI.

Is Social Security Income A Better Choice?

Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is different from SSDI in a number of ways, with the most obvious being that it is available to persons who have not worked or worked only for brief periods of time. It is often used by adults who have been disabled since childhood and have not been able to accrue enough credits to qualify for SSDI. In some instances, it can also provide partial financial benefits to your minor children if they determine that you qualify for payments.

Unfortunately, since this is a needs-based program and is therefore an example of government welfare, strict guidelines apply to your available resources. For instance, a single person cannot have more than $2,000 in resources and a married couple is limited to just $3,000. Although those resources typically exclude one vehicle and your home, the cash you have in hand, in the bank and even your life insurance policy are included within that maximum.

Can You Get Both Types Of Social Security Benefits At The Same Time?

In some instances, you might be eligible for both SSDI and SSI. Specifically, if you worked and paid into social security, but were unable to contribute very much due to your income or the length of time that you were employed, you may be able to get dual payments. However, your payment from SSDI would usually be quite low and the larger payments would usually come as a SSI benefit.

Many applicants are not eligible for payments, but you should discuss your options with your social security lawyer.

In conclusion, individuals who have been diagnosed with a chronic illness or permanent disability that has adversely impacted their ability to support themselves may be eligible for social security payments. Since there are two different programs to apply for and some individuals are eligible for both, it is essential for every disabled person to be aware of the facts discussed above. For more information, contact a lawyer such as Gerald Lutkenhaus.