Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program for workers with a disability who have paid into the Social Security system through a wage deduction. You are required to have a certain number of work credits based on your age. Once you have met the criteria for contributions, you are considered “insured” for SSDI, but still need to prove that you are “disabled” according to Social Security’s criteria.
What do I need to be eligible for SSDI?
To be eligible for SSDI you must:
- Meet the medical requirements and have a documented medical condition that prevents you from being able to work.
- Have paid FICA Social Security tax.
- Have enough work credits.
- Not be over your full Social Security retirement age.
Answer the SSA’s questions to help you determine if you might be considered disabled.
What does it mean to be “insured”?
While you are working, paying the FICA Social Security tax, and earning work credits, you are “insured” for benefits through Social Security if you become disabled. Depending on how long you’ve paid into the Social Security system, your disability insurance coverage can be extended for up to five years even after you stop working.
When can I start receiving SSDI benefits?
For SSDI benefits, you are required to wait five months after your disability begins before you can start receiving payments. Additionally, you can only receive SSDI payments going back a year before you file an application. Therefore, it is important that you don’t wait too long to file for SSDI benefits, or you might lose out on the monthly payments.
How does Social Security calculate my SSDI payment?
SSDI benefit payments are calculated based on your income and how much you paid in FICA Social Security taxes. You can access your SSDI payment amount by creating an account on Social Security’s website at ssa.gov.
Adult Child SSDI
Disabled adult children who are unable to work long enough to contribute to Social Security may qualify for SSDI benefits if their parents have worked and paid into Social Security. The parent must be receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits or must be deceased. Only adult children who are unmarried, over the age of 18, and have had a diagnosed disability that started before age 22 are eligible for these benefits.
Hiring an Attorney
If you believe that you may be eligible for SSDI benefits, our attorneys can help you find the answers you’ve been looking for. We will be here to support you during this challenging time, no matter where you are in the process. Get in touch with a member of our team to get started.
