If you are like most Americans, you are aware that you can get benefits from the government if you have a disability — but you probably don’t know too many details. Many of us are fortunate to not have to learn about disability benefits firsthand. However, if the time comes that you are unable to work due to a disability, you will want to learn as much as possible about your rights.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two types of disability benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both SSDI and SSI are designed to help people who cannot work because of a disability. However, there are a number of important differences between the two programs, including how a person can qualify for each type of benefit.
If you have a disability that is expected to last for 12 months or longer or to result in death, you may be eligible for SSDI and/or SSI. Both types of benefits require an applicant to prove that they are unable to work due to a disability. To qualify for SSDI, you must have paid into the system through working, while SSI is a needs-based program that analyzes your income and resources.
Just 28% of all Social Security disability benefits claims are approved after an initial application. Denials can be appealed through a four-level process, which often includes a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
Understanding what the SSA looks for when deciding disability benefit applications can help as you work your way through the process. Our new e-book on Social Security claims lays out all of the information that you need, including:
- The difference between SSDI and SSI
- How to apply for Social Security disability benefits
- What to watch for when applying for benefits
- How to appeal a denial
We have written this e-book to be accessible for everyone, with a focus on empowering Americans with disabilities as they go through the SSDI and/or SSI application process. This e-book is available free of charge.
Bross & Frankel was founded in 1995 by a former Benefit Authorizer for the Social Security Administration. Over the past 25 years, our law firm has represented thousands of clients as they apply for disability benefits, whether through the SSA, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, or their own long-term disability insurance company. We are fierce advocates for our clients, putting our knowledge of the system and the law to work for each individual.
Our team of Social Security disability lawyers is committed to helping people with disabilities navigate the SSA bureaucracy. If you have questions about Social Security disability benefits, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 856-795-8880 or via our online contact form to schedule a free claim review.