If you were injured in the workplace, you’ll almost certainly have been entitled to workers’ compensation to cover the associated damages. The medical care, additional expenses and a portion of your lost wages will have been covered by workers’ compensation. However, if your injury was so severe that you are no longer able to work, you’ll need to start considering other options so that you can continue to support yourself financially.
One option that you have is to gain workers’ compensation temporary disability benefits. After you have exhausted these benefits, you may be entitled to Social Security disability benefits.
What are Social Security disability benefits?
Those who are unable to work because of a disability may be eligible for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. There are two types of Social Security disability benefits; Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is awarded based on whether you have worked long enough to be insured for disability benefits, and SSI is awarded on a needs-first basis.
How do I know if I’m eligible?
To be eligible for either type of disability benefit, you will need to show that you are unable to work due to an impairment that is recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA). An emphasis on the severity of your disability and the possibility of your carrying out any type of work that will enable you to gain an income will be considered.
If you were injured on the job and you are now suffering from a permanent disability that prevents you from working, it is important that you take action so that you are able to get the benefits that you deserve.
