FAQ
What are the differences between SSI and SSDI?
SSI is Supplemental Security Income. With SSI, you receive payments that are based on the financial need of adults and children. It applies if you have become disabled while having a limited income and resources. SSI is financed by your general tax revenues.
SSDI is Social Security Disability Insurance. It is awarded to disabled people who have paid social security on taxes and have worked at least 5 of the past 10 years. If you are under the age of 22, the work requirement may be waived. Funds come from the Social Security tax.
Will my Military Retirement and VA Disability affect my eligibility for SSDI?
Social Security Administration is completely separate from the Department of Veterans Affairs. You might be eligible to receive benefits from both entities. We always advise you seek professional advice and representation before filing an application.
SSDI is not granted on a need-basis, but rather your capability for gainful employment. If you are receiving military retirement, your chances of receiving SSDI will not be affected.
How long do I have to be disabled before I can apply?
You don’t have to wait. Once your conditions prevent you from working a full-time job you can apply.
If I am currently on sick leave from my job, can I apply right now?
Yes. If you expect to be out of work for at least 1 year, you can file now.
If I have been injured on the job and have filed a worker’s compensation claim, can I still file for Social Security disability benefits too?
Yes. You do not have to wait for your worker’s compensation claim to be completed to file for benefits. The sooner you file, the faster you may be able to collect.
Do I have to be permanently disabled to get benefits?
As long as your condition prevents you from working for at least a year you can file, whether the disability is permanent or not.
Why does Social Security look at my age when I am disabled?
If you are between the ages of 18-49 you will have to prove your condition prevents you from holding any full-time job. Once you are 50, there are special rules that apply which may only require you to show that your specific condition prevents you from performing the work you have done in the past 15 years.
Can I do anything to improve my chances of winning my disability claim?
Start by submitting a thorough and complete application. There are over 20 pages of information and questions that must be filled out, if you want to be considered and possibly accepted.
Seeing a doctor regularly can give Social Security the evidence it needs to determine that your conditions prevent you from performing a full-time job.
Hire a professional to help you through the process step by step. The documents, questions, and forms can become overwhelming and confusing. With our help, you stand the best chances to receive the benefits that you deserve in front of a judge and in court.
If I am approved, how much will I get for my disability claim?
If you are filing for SSDI, your benefits will depend on what you were making while you were employed. You may request a detailed earnings statement to view your exact amount.
If you are filing an SSI claim, what you receive will be based on the current federal benefit rate, any income, and any other benefits you are receiving. Contact one of our specialists for a calculated estimate of your benefits amount.