Am I Eligible For Social Security Disability Benefits?
There are two different kinds of Social Security Disability Benefits:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI);
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
To be eligible for either of these benefits you need to show that you are “disabled” according to Social Security’s standard. But being disabled is not enough. You also need to meet non-disability requirements. These requirements are described below:
SSDI- SSDI benefits are available to individuals who have paid sufficient FICA taxes as a result of their employment. To be eligible, you must have 20 out of 40 “quarters of coverage.” This means that you must have worked 5 out of 10 years prior to becoming disabled. I am frequently asked if it is possible to purchase quarters of coverage. Unfortunately, the answer is no. The only way to earn sufficient quarters is through work activity.
SSI-Supplemental Security Income is available to disabled individuals who fall below certain income and resource requirements. Generally speaking, you may be able to get SSI if your resources are worth no more than $2,000. If you are married, Social Security considers the income and resources of your spouse in making the determination of whether you are SSI eligible. In addition, to receive SSI, you must live in the U.S. or the Northern Mariana Islands and be a U.S. citizen or national.
Determining eligibility can be confusing and complicated. Not sure if you are eligible? Do not miss out. Contact us now for a free consultation.
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