Are you dealing with health issues and financial uncertainty? You’re not alone. When you’ve become unable to work due to a health condition, you may need financial assistance to pay for your livelihood. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an available resource for those needing financial assistance due to a disability.
What is SSDI?
SSDI is considered an “entitlement program,” meaning it is available to those who have paid into social security and earned enough credits. By making their contribution to the Social Security fund, recipients of SSDI are considered “insured”. The Social Security Administration provides benefits to those who cannot work enough due to certain medical conditions.
Who Can Qualify for SSDI?
SSDI is available for those individuals who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. There are a variety of impairments that qualify under SSDI. Some of them include disorders affecting the cardiovascular system or musculoskeletal system as well as neurological disorders and cancer. To be considered a candidate for SSDI, a person should be under the age of 65 and have earned a specific number of work credits, working at least 5 out of the last 10 years.
How Much Money Can You Make And Still Get SSDI?
SSDI Income Limits
In general, SSDI recipients are unable to perform what the Social Security Administration refers to as “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). Substantial gainful activity means you can work enough to make more than $1,310 per month in 2021 or $2,190 if you’re blind. In general, SSDI payments will stop if you are earning more than those amounts.
Working and SSDI Benefits
There are some exceptions to the SSDI income limitations. SSDI recipients can perform a trial work period during which they may be able to make more than the SGA amount and maintain SSDI benefits. Sometimes, during a one-month trial period, SSDI recipients can test their ability to work and continue to receive full benefits even if the amount earned exceeds SGA.
Ticket to Work Program
Those who are looking to work toward financial independence and are also receiving SSDI benefits can sign up for the SSA’s Ticket to Work program. This program supports those ages 18 to 64 who want to work but are also Social Security disability beneficiaries. The program waives SGA earning limits, so recipients can go through the program and complete trial work while still receiving benefits. If a participant gets a job through the program, SSDI benefits will stop if the amount earned exceeds the SGA amount.
Ready to Apply for SSDI?
If you think you might qualify for SSDI benefits and are ready to apply, contact the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill help. Our team of experienced disability attorneys is ready to assist you throughout the process. If you are unsure whether or not you will qualify for SSDI, we are happy to discuss your options and answer your questions. The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill can also help if you were previously denied SSDI benefits. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a free consultation.