When you are unable to work due to an injury or health condition, it can be frustrating trying to figure out how you are going to make ends meet. Many people find that they are able to get some assistance from Social Security Disability, but others find that they are ineligible when they try to receive benefits. If you are curious as to whether you qualify for this assistance program, there are a few factors you should consider.
How Do You Qualify for Disability?
The guidelines to qualify for disability are relatively basic. First, the jobs you worked must be jobs that are covered by social security. The second requirement is that you have a medical condition that the Social Security Administration defines as a disability. If you meet these qualifications and you are unable to work for a year or more due to your disability, you will most likely be eligible to receive monthly payments.
How Long Do the Benefits Last?
In most cases, your disability benefits will continue until you are able to work on a regular basis again. The program also offers several work “incentives” that allow you to continue to receive certain benefits and health care coverage as you make your transition back into the workplace. If you are receiving Social Security Disability when you reach the legal retirement age, the administration will automatically convert your disability benefits to retirement benefits. The monthly payments for each are the same amount, so you will neither lose nor gain additional benefits.
Is There a Partial or Short Term Benefits Program?
The Social Security Administration decides if your disability qualifies for benefits based on whether you can perform the job you did before, you cannot adjust to a different position due to your condition. Your disability is expected to last for at least a year. So, unfortunately, there are no short term benefits available.
If you need help getting disability benefits while you are injured and missing work, call Shlesinger & deVilleneuve at (541) 485-8411.
