Question 1

What are disability benefits?

Accepted Answer

Disability benefits are a type of insurance that the Social Security Administration provides to people who are unable to work due to a medical condition. This can be either SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) for people who have worked and paid into the system, or SSI (Supplemental Security Income) for low-income individuals who haven't earned enough work credits for SSDI.

Question 2

How do I qualify for SSDI disability benefits?

Accepted Answer

To qualify for SSDI disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that significantly limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Additionally, you must have earned a certain number of work credits, which are based on your income and age.

Question 3

How much money can I receive from disability benefits?

Accepted Answer

The amount of money you can receive from disability benefits depends on various factors. For SSDI, it's based on your average lifetime earnings before your disability began. As of 2021, the average SSDI benefit was about $1,277 per month, but the exact amount can vary. For SSI, the maximum federal benefit rate in 2021 was $794 per month for an individual, although this may be supplemented by state benefits.

Question 4

How long will my disability benefits last?

Accepted Answer

Your disability benefits will last as long as you continue to have a medical condition that prevents you from working. The Social Security Administration will periodically review your case to determine whether your health has improved enough for you to return to work.

Question 5

How can a disability benefits attorney help me?

Accepted Answer

A disability benefits attorney can help you navigate the complex process of applying for disability benefits. They can help you gather medical evidence, handle the paperwork, and represent you in hearings if necessary. An attorney can also help you appeal if your initial application is denied.

Question 6

What are the steps involved in applying for disability benefits?

Accepted Answer

Applying for disability benefits involves several steps, starting with determining your eligibility. You'll need to gather medical and financial records, complete the application, and possibly attend a disability hearing. The process can take several months to over a year, depending on various factors.

Question 7

What if my application for disability benefits is denied?

Accepted Answer

If your application for disability benefits is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. This involves a four-level process: reconsideration, hearing by an administrative law judge, review by the Appeals Council, and a federal court review. An attorney can guide you through this process.

Question 8

Can I work while receiving disability benefits?

Accepted Answer

In some cases, you may be able to work while receiving disability benefits, but there are strict rules and limitations. The Social Security Administration offers programs like the Ticket to Work program that can help you transition back into the workforce while protecting your benefits.

Question 9

Can I receive disability benefits if my disability is mental or psychological?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can receive disability benefits for mental or psychological conditions if they are severe enough to prevent you from working. The Social Security Administration recognizes a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, autism, and others.

Question 10

What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?

Accepted Answer

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security, while SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is for low-income individuals who have not earned enough work credits or have never been able to work. The medical criteria to qualify for disability are the same for both programs.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Disability Benefits

What are disability benefits?

How do I qualify for SSDI disability benefits?

How much money can I receive from disability benefits?

How long will my disability benefits last?

How can a disability benefits attorney help me?

What are the steps involved in applying for disability benefits?

What if my application for disability benefits is denied?

Can I work while receiving disability benefits?

Can I receive disability benefits if my disability is mental or psychological?

What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?

Table of Contents:

You’re our first priority. Every time.

Best Disability Benefits Attorneys in Maine

Frequently Asked Questions About Disability Benefits

What are disability benefits?

How do I qualify for SSDI disability benefits?

How much money can I receive from disability benefits?

How long will my disability benefits last?

How can a disability benefits attorney help me?

What are the steps involved in applying for disability benefits?

What if my application for disability benefits is denied?

Can I work while receiving disability benefits?

Can I receive disability benefits if my disability is mental or psychological?

What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?

Table of Contents:

You’re our first priority.
Every time.