Benefits for SSDI—also known as Social Security Disability Insurance—can provide life-changing financial support for individuals who are no longer able to work due to a lack of physical and/or mental abilities. However, these benefits are only available under certain circumstances.

If you have a recent and extensive work history, you could be entitled to SSI benefits following a disabling injury or illness. With the help of a seasoned social security disability attorney, you could successfully secure the benefits you are entitled to. Before attempting to file a claim on your own, consider discussing your options with an experienced SSDI benefits lawyer.

Understanding SSDI Benefits

Benefits through SSDI are calculated the same way as Social Security retirement benefits. The government bases these benefits on a person’s covered earnings, which relates to the amount of money that person paid in Social Security taxes. This is important, as this government assistance program is exclusively for individuals that have paid into the system over the years. Securing benefits based on a strong work history could be possible with the help of an SSDI benefits attorney.

When calculating SSDI benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) first reviews an applicant’s average monthly earnings throughout the course of their life. This figure is then put into a formula to determine that person’s primary insurance amount—or PIA.

The PIA formula is weighted toward low-income workers. In other words, the less money that a full-time worker makes in their career, the larger percentage of their income they are likely to recover through a successful SSDI claim. However, the amount of monthly income any applicant can recover is capped, and is only adjusted once a year based on inflation.

These monthly payments are designed to provide income for individuals who would normally be working were it not for their disability. For that reason, these benefits will be cut off when a person reaches the age for retirement. From that point forward, an individual could be entitled to retirement benefits through Social Security.

Qualifying for Benefits

There are two important considerations when it comes to qualifying for SSDI benefits. The first is that an applicant must have a qualifying disability that is recognized by the SSA. The second is that they must have a work history that is covered by Social Security. An SSDI benefits attorney could help collect and provide the appropriate documentation to show an applicant meets both criteria in their application.

Disability

The disability requirement limits SSDI benefits to those individuals who are unable to work due to injury or illness. These benefits must be recognized by the SSA, though a wide range of conditions can qualify. A knowledgeable legal professional could provide guidance on what conditions will meet these requirements.

Work History

The work history requirement is designed to prevent anyone who has not paid into Social Security taxes from relying on these benefits. Eligibility is based on the number of work credits a person has accumulated in recent years. Typically, workers earn up to 4 credits per year and need 40 credits total to qualify for government assistance.

Call an SSDI Benefits Attorney as Soon as Possible

Obtaining SSDI benefits could dramatically change your financial situation following an injury or illness. Unfortunately, these benefits are not always easy to obtain on your own.

Before pursuing a benefits claim by yourself, let a skilled attorney advise you on your options. With the right legal help, you could prove your eligibility on an initial application and avoid a denied claim. Reach out to an SSDI benefits lawyer right away to learn more. A team of nationwide attorneys are prepared to provide you with the necessary guidance from start to finish on your case. Call now.