The first questions asked by the Social Security Administration are about income and employment for five of the last 10 years. If a person engages in "substantial gainful activity" and earns more than $980 per month, they do not qualify for SSDI benefits. Next, they factor in the severity of a person's disability and the extent to which it interferes with job performance. In addition, the disability must either meet or exceed a suitable medical listing.
The Social Security Administration then evaluates work the applicant performed in the past despite the disability, denying SSDI benefits if an applicant demonstrates they can still work. However, if an applicant cannot perform their job, the Social Security Administration evaluates his or her work experience, age, mental and physical status, and education to determine if the applicant can perform another type of work.
What SSDI Provides
After being a productive and self-sufficient worker, many individuals with debilitating illnesses and disabilities find themselves at a loss as to how to function in their daily lives. SSDI benefits provide a regular monthly income and annual increases generally tied to the rise in the cost of living. Recipients also receive Medicare medical benefits 24 months after cash entitlement to Social Security disability benefits. Medicare includes Part A hospital benefits, Part B medical benefits and Part D prescription drug coverage, plus the option of choosing from several Medicare Advantage plans. Those qualifying for benefits also may receive an 11-month extension of their COBRA benefits.
The complex process of applying for Social Security disability benefits often prevents qualified people from receiving their SSDI benefits. However, individuals can increase the likelihood of receiving an award by consulting a professional SSDI benefits company that can help protect long-term disability, retirement and dependent benefits. A professional claims services company also can make the complicated application process simple and stress free. Once you receive SSDI benefits, you also receive access to return-to-work incentives, which allow you to try returning to work while continuing to receive Social Security disability benefits.