A workplace accident can result in an injury or illness that renders you unable to engage in any productive activity. If this happens, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.
If you are considering applying for SSD benefits, it is important that you are prepared. The Social Security Administration has strict application requirements and processes that can make claiming benefits difficult.
Here are three important questions you need to ask yourself before applying for SSD benefits:
Do I have enough work history to qualify?
In order to be eligible for SSD benefits, you need to have paid into the Social Security system through your employment. If you don’t have enough “work credits,” you may not qualify. You can check out your eligibility online at the Social Security Administration website or you can ask when you go to file your claim.
Does my injury or illness qualify for the benefits?
The answer to this question may not be straightforward. SSA has an impairment listing manual that outlines the physical and mental conditions that automatically qualify for SSD benefits – but that doesn’t cover every possible disability.
Basically, to qualify for SSD benefits, the severity of your condition must prevent you from working entirely.
Will my condition keep me out of work for at least 12 months?
You must be 100% disabled to qualify for SSD benefits – and the disability must be expected to last 12 months or longer. There is no such thing as “temporary” or “partial” Social Security Disability.
If you sustain an injury or illness that renders you unable to work, one of the options you can consider is applying for SSDI benefits. Learn more about your legal options today.
