Social Security Benefits Under the Disability Program

Q: Who qualifies for social security benefits through the disability insurance program?
A: You are eligible to apply for social security benefits, if your injury will not allow you to work for 12 months or more. The condition can be mental or physical in nature. To be awarded social security benefits, you must also meet income criteria. Currently, that amount is just under $1000 per month before taxes. In addition, you must show that it is not possible for you to perform other types of work. To determine "other work" eligibility, Social Security considers your education, age and the type of employment you had prior to your injury.
Q: Do disability social security benefits have a time limit?
A: You will collect social security benefits unless one of three things happen. If your condition improves to the point that it allows you to return to work, your social security benefits will be discontinued. If you choose to reenter the workforce, instead of relying on your social security benefits, your benefits would also discontinue. The last scenario in which social security benefits would no longer continue would be if you reach retirement age. In that case, you would then begin receiving retirement benefits instead. Your file will be reevaluated from time to time. It is expected that you inform your case manager, should your injury improve or if you return to work.
Q: What is the average time it takes to review a claim for social security benefits?
A: The average time it takes for an initial social security benefits claim to be reviewed is a little over 3 months. It is hard to determine, however, the length of time your claim may be under review. Some claims for social security benefits can be awarded in as little as a month. And a decision may not be made on others for a couple years. By assuring that you have submitted thorough details and the necessary forms in a timely manner, you can increase the likelihood that your social security benefits claim will not hit any snags. Most cases get hung up because the claims representative is waiting for current and complete medical information. If you are having difficulty completing the necessary paperwork for your initial application for social security benefits, consider seeking the counsel of an attorney.