Social Security Disability 101

Social Security Disability 101

There are a lot of misconceptions around social security disability and who can benefit from it. Understanding the basic information and principles of social security disability is however important to many people across the United States, regardless of age, gender or profession.

What is Social Security Disability, Exactly?

The Social Security Administration proposes a strict definition of disability on their Official Social Security website, it is thus defined as follows:

“Disability under Social Security is based on your inability to work. We consider you disabled under Social Security rules if:

  • You cannot do work that you did before;
  • We decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s); and
  • Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.”

In Florida (Tampa, St-Petersburg and Clearwater area make no difference), the law defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical injury or mental deficiency. States which can be expected to “result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”

Who Can Benefit from Social Security Disability?

A lot of people tend to assume that social security is not to be considered before they reach a certain age and have to worry about retirement income. A lot of people are wrong about a lot of things.

Social security disability is important to a lot of people across our country, therefore anyone should be aware of the basic principles behind it. In fact, studies show that “1 in 4 of today’s 20 year-olds will become disabled before reaching age 67.”

We spend a lot of time and energy on growing in our career and succeed in our jobs. However, few of us think about ensuring a plan B, should we become disabled.

Social Security Disability 101: How Can You Claim?

Your medical reports have to support you claim, adequately. Your medical reports are definitely THE major document that will determine the success of your claim. This is why getting advices and comments with a Tampa disability attorney will always be worth. Our social security disability lawyers in Tampa will review your claim and help you with their evaluation.

What are the Benefits You Should Expect?

The SSI. In its longer and full form: Supplemental Security Income.

According to a document available on the SSA website: “SSI makes monthly payments to people who have low income and few resources, and who are:

  • Age 65 or older;
  • Blind; or
  • Disabled.”

Unlike social security disability benefits, allocated money for SSI comes from general tax revenue (rather than from Social Security). It is important to note that only specific profiles can qualify based on a series of financial requirements. In other words, low income claimers (individuals or families) will actually qualify for SSI.

In order to value assets, means will be tested only against cash, bank accounts and stocks and bonds. Means will not be tested against homes, vehicles or another insurance.

Our attorneys understand that you have questions and concerns. Contact our Social Security Disability lawyers in Tampa today so we give you answers and solutions.