As you approach retirement age, you might find yourself evaluating your options for financial support during your golden years. For individuals with disabilities, the decision can become even more complex. Many people wonder whether they will receive a higher amount for SSDI vs retirement. Understanding the differences is crucial to making an informed choice. Let us help you navigate the nuances of each option to determine which path offers the greatest financial advantage for your specific situation.

Understanding SSDI and Retirement Benefits

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. To qualify for SSDI, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Work Credits: You must have earned enough work credits by paying Social Security taxes through your employment. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years ending with the year you become disabled. Younger individuals may qualify with fewer credits.
  • Disability Criteria: Your medical condition must meet the SSA’s definition of disability, which is a severe impairment that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.

Social Security Retirement Benefits

Social Security retirement benefits are available to individuals who have reached the minimum retirement age, which is 62. However, claiming benefits before reaching full retirement age (FRA), which ranges from 66 to 67 depending on your birth year, will result in a permanently reduced monthly benefit. Here are the key points:

  • Early Retirement: You can start receiving benefits as early as age 62, but your benefits will be reduced by up to 30%.
  • Full Retirement Age (FRA): If you wait until your FRA to claim benefits, you will receive 100% of your entitled benefit.
  • Delayed Retirement: Delaying benefits past your FRA increases your monthly benefit amount by up to 8% per year for each year you delay, up to age 70.

Financial Comparison: SSDI vs Retirement

To determine whether SSDI or retirement benefits will provide you with more financial support, consider the following factors:

Monthly Benefit Amounts

  • SSDI Benefits: The amount you receive from SSDI is based on your average lifetime earnings before your disability began. This amount is generally similar to what you would receive at your FRA.
  • Retirement Benefits: If you claim retirement benefits at age 62, you will receive a reduced amount for the rest of your life. This reduction can significantly impact your overall financial stability.

Work History and Earnings

  • SSDI: Because SSDI benefits are based on your earnings record, individuals with a consistent work history and higher earnings will receive higher SSDI payments.
  • Retirement: Similarly, your retirement benefit amount is based on your highest 35 years of earnings. However, taking benefits early reduces this amount.

Health and Life Expectancy

  • SSDI: For individuals with severe disabilities that limit life expectancy, SSDI provides immediate financial support and may be the more advantageous option.
  • Retirement: If you are in good health and expect to live a long life, delaying retirement benefits might make more sense. 

Case Scenarios: SSDI vs Retirement

When deciding between SSDI and retirement benefits, it is essential to consider various scenarios based on your age, health, and financial needs. The following examples illustrate two common situations individuals may face when choosing between early retirement and SSDI benefits.

Scenario 1: Early Retirement vs. SSDI Approval

If you are 62 and unable to work due to a disability, you might consider applying for early retirement benefits. However, your SSDI benefits will replace your reduced retirement benefits, and you will receive the full SSDI amount. This approach ensures you receive the maximum benefit you are entitled to based on your earnings record.

Scenario 2: Waiting for Full Retirement Age

If you are close to your FRA and can manage without early retirement benefits, waiting until you reach FRA will provide you with a higher monthly benefit. If you qualify for SSDI, you can transition to retirement benefits at your FRA without any reduction.

Maximizing Your Benefits

To maximize your Social Security benefits, consider the following strategies:

  • Evaluate Your Health and Work Capacity: If you are unable to work due to a disability, apply for SSDI as soon as possible to secure higher benefits.
  • Understand Your FRA: Know your full retirement age and the impact of claiming benefits early or delaying them.
  • Consult with a Financial Advisor: A financial advisor can help you evaluate your specific situation and plan for the most advantageous benefit strategy.
  • Seek Legal Assistance: Consulting with a disability attorney can help you navigate the SSDI application process and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

Get Assistance with Your SSDI Application

Deciding between SSDI and retirement benefits is a significant financial decision that requires careful consideration of your health, work history, and financial needs. By understanding the differences between SSDI and retirement benefits, you can make an informed choice that maximizes your financial security.

If you have further questions or need assistance with your SSDI application, The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards securing your financial future.

When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the completion of the Work History Report (Form SSA-3369) is a pivotal step. This document plays a crucial role in how the Social Security Administration (SSA) assesses your ability to work despite your disability. Understanding how to answer the social security disability work history report accurately can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. 

Understanding the SSA-3369 Form

The SSA-3369 Form is designed to obtain a comprehensive view of your work history over the past five years. The SSA uses this information to determine if your current health condition affects your ability to perform work you’ve done before. Detailing your previous job roles, responsibilities, and the physical and mental demands of those positions is essential to establishing your eligibility for disability benefits.

Preparing to Fill Out the SSA-3369

Before you start filling out the Work History Report, gather all relevant documentation related to your employment history. This includes:

  • Job titles and the nature of each business
  • Employment dates
  • Detailed descriptions of job duties
  • Information about the physical and mental requirements of each role

Compiling this information beforehand will help streamline the process and ensure that you do not leave out any important details.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Work History Report

Step 1: Gather Relevant Personal Information

Begin by providing your basic personal details, such as your name, Social Security number, and contact information. This section is straightforward but important for identifying your record.

Step 2: Provide a Detailed Employment History

For each job held in the last five years, describe the position clearly and concisely. Include your job title, the duration of employment, and the employer’s information. It is crucial to detail the physical and mental demands of each job, such as lifting requirements, levels of concentration needed, or if the job required prolonged standing or sitting. 

Step 3: Job Skills and Duties

The form will have you include information about your most recent jobs. You will want to demonstrate that these jobs are too demanding for your current abilities. However, avoid exaggerating skills you used or things you did in your past occupations. The form will ask you about things such as:

  • what kinds of tools and equipment you used for your jobs
  • what skills and knowledge were needed
  • what physical demands were required
  • in what ways you worked with others
  • what you did all day on the job
  • the heaviest weight you lifted
  • the weight you most frequently lifted
  • whether or not you supervised others in this job

Step 4: Remarks

The final section allows for remarks to add any additional information or answers that were too long to fit in the space provided. For those who are filling out the report on someone else’s behalf, this is where their name, address, and date will go. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When filling out the SSA-3369, common mistakes include:

  • Omitting job roles or not fully detailing the scope of responsibilities.
  • Failing to mention the physical and mental demands of each position.
  • Inconsistency in information that doesn’t align with other forms or medical records submitted to SSA.

Avoid these errors by reviewing your form multiple times and ensuring that the information matches across all documents submitted to the SSA.

Submitting Your Work History Report

After completing the form, review your answers to ensure all information is accurate and complete. You can submit the form to the SSA in person at a local SSA office, by mail, fax, or, in some cases, online. If you realize you need to make changes after submission, contact the SSA immediately to find out how you can amend your submitted report.

Contact the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill for Help with Your Work History Report

Completing the SSA-3369 Work History Report accurately is essential for a successful disability claim. Take the time to provide detailed and precise information about your employment history and the demands of your past jobs. Remember, the clarity and accuracy of your report can greatly influence the SSA’s decision regarding your disability benefits. If you need help or have questions about how to answer social security disability work history report, don’t hesitate to contact The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill for guidance and support. We are here to assist you through each step of your disability claim process.

When you’re dealing with a disability, maintaining financial stability is crucial. For those exploring or continuing self-employment while navigating these challenges, understanding how this choice impacts eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is essential. This article explores the intricacies of SSDI and self-employment, providing you with the knowledge you need to manage your benefits effectively.

Understanding SSDI Eligibility Criteria

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed to provide income supplements to people who are restricted in their ability to be employed because of a severe disability. To qualify for SSDI, applicants must have accumulated a sufficient number of work credits, which are based on total yearly wages or self-employment income. For the self-employed, paying the self-employment tax is key to earning these credits, directly impacting their eligibility for SSDI benefits.

Self-Employment and Earning Work Credits

Self-employed individuals contribute to Social Security through self-employment taxes, which include both the employer and employee portions of FICA taxes. Earning work credits as a self-employed professional involves accurately reporting your net earnings from self-employment. Here are some critical steps to ensure you’re on track:

  • Report all earnings to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA).
  • Pay the self-employment tax on your earnings to accrue work credits.
  • Maintain accurate records of your annual net earnings.

How Self-Employment Income Affects SSDI

For SSDI purposes, the SSA defines Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) as work that brings in over a certain amount of income per month. For self-employed individuals, assessing SGA involves more than just looking at income. The SSA applies three tests to determine if the work qualifies as SGA:

  1. Significant Services and Substantial Income Test: Evaluates whether you provide significant services to your business and earn a substantial income.
  2. Comparability Test: Compares your work activity and income to that of unimpaired individuals in your community doing similar work.
  3. Worth of Work Test: Assesses whether the work is worth the income received or saves the business money that would need to be spent on hiring an employee.

Reporting Requirements for Self-Employed SSDI Recipients

Self-employed individuals must regularly report their earnings to the SSA. This reporting ensures that the benefits received are correct and prevents overpayments. Here’s what you need to keep track of:

  • Monthly income and expenses related to your self-employment.
  • Documentation supporting the reporting, such as tax returns, profit and loss statements, and receipts.
  • Changes in your business activities that might affect your disability status or work credits.

Failing to accurately report these can lead to penalties, overpayment demands, and potentially losing SSDI eligibility.

Tips for Managing SSDI Benefits While Self-Employed

Navigating SSDI while self-employed can be complex. Here are some strategies to help you manage:

  • Keep thorough and organized financial records.
  • Plan for income fluctuations that might affect your reported earnings and SSDI evaluations.
  • Consult with disability benefits experts or attorneys who can provide guidance specific to your situation.

Self-Employment vs Business Ownership: The Impact of Owning a Business on Disability Benefits Eligibility

While independent contractors, freelancers, consultants, or gig workers are considered “self-employed”, business owners can fall into a different category. Navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be particularly challenging for business owners. Understanding the nuances of eligibility requirements is crucial, especially when it comes to how you compensate yourself from your business. If you own a business, certain practices regarding how you pay yourself might affect your eligibility for SSDI benefits.

SSDI is funded through payroll taxes under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). As an employee, contributions to SSDI are automatically deducted from your salary, ensuring you earn work credits necessary for SSDI benefits eligibility. However, as a business owner, the way you compensate yourself can significantly impact whether you contribute to Social Security and, consequently, your eligibility for benefits.

Compensation Methods and Social Security Contributions

Many business owners choose compensation methods that optimize tax benefits but might inadvertently limit their eligibility for SSDI. Here are common scenarios:

  • Salary vs. Dividends: Business owners who pay themselves through dividends rather than a set salary do not contribute to Social Security. Dividends are typically not subject to FICA taxes, which means no Social Security credits are earned. Without these credits, you might not meet the eligibility criteria for SSDI.
  • Pass-through Income: Owners of S-corporations or partnerships might receive pass-through income, which can be subject to self-employment tax depending on the structure of the business and the owner’s role. Active participants who receive a salary and pay FICA taxes accrue Social Security credits, whereas passive income might not qualify.

Business owners should consider their long-term financial health and potential need for disability benefits when structuring their compensation. Consulting with financial advisors and disability law experts can provide crucial guidance in aligning business practices with personal financial needs, including eligibility for SSDI.

Contact the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill

If you’re self-employed or a business owner and uncertain about how your work affects your SSDI benefits, don’t navigate these waters alone. Learn how much SSI you can get in Missouri, and  Contact The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill for a free evaluation to discuss your specific case and get the expert advice you need. 

If you are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and your initial application is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision. However, the appeals process can be lengthy and complex. It is important to understand the average timeline for a social security disability appeal and how to prepare for the process.

SSDI Appeals Timeline

The average timeline for SSDI appeals can vary depending on a number of factors, including the level of appeal, the complexity of the case, and the backlog of cases in your area. Generally, there are four levels of appeal:

  1. Reconsideration: If your initial application is denied, you can request a reconsideration. This involves a review of your case by someone who was not involved in the initial decision. The average processing time for reconsideration is about three to six months.
  2. Hearing: If your request for reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). The average processing time for a hearing is about 12 to 24 months.
  3. Appeals Council: If your hearing decision is unfavorable, you can request a review by the Appeals Council. This involves a review of your case by an administrative law judge at the Appeals Council level. The average processing time for an Appeals Council review is about 12 to 18 months.
  4. Federal Court: If your Appeals Council review is unfavorable, you can file a civil suit in a Federal district court. This level of appeal can take around two years depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule.

Why Do Disability Appeals Take So Long?

There are a few reasons why SSDI appeals can take a long time. One reason is the backlog of cases at each level of appeal. There are often more cases than there are administrative law judges and staff to review them, which can cause delays in the processing time.

Another reason for lengthy time frames is the complexity of the appeals process. Appeals can involve gathering medical records, obtaining statements from doctors and other healthcare professionals, and presenting evidence to support your claim. This process can be time-consuming and require a lot of coordination and organization.

SSDI appeals involve legal and medical concepts that can be difficult to understand for people who are not familiar with the process. It is helpful to have an experienced SSDI attorney on your side to help navigate the appeals process and ensure that your case is presented in the best possible light.

How to Prepare for the Appeals Process

If you are planning to appeal a denial of SSDI benefits, it is important to be prepared for the process. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

  • Keep detailed records of your medical treatment, including doctor’s visits, hospitalizations, and medications.
  • Obtain copies of all medical records related to your disability.
  • Make a list of all healthcare professionals who have treated you for your disability, including doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workers.
  • Consider hiring an experienced SSDI attorney to help you navigate the appeals process.
  • Be patient and persistent. The appeals process can be frustrating, but it is important to stay focused and committed to your case.
  • Attend all scheduled medical appointments and follow your doctor’s treatment plan. This will help to establish the severity of your disability and demonstrate your commitment to improving your health.
  • Keep your attorney informed of any changes in your medical condition or treatment plan.

Hire an Experienced Disability Attorney to Help

The average timeline for social security disability (SSDI) appeals can be lengthy, but it is important to be prepared for the process and work with an experienced disability attorney to navigate the appeals process. With patience and persistence, you can increase your chances of success and obtain the benefits that you deserve.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to people who are unable to work due to a disability. Medicare and Medicaid are two government-sponsored healthcare programs that provide healthcare coverage to eligible individuals. Many people who receive SSDI benefits also qualify for Medicare or Medicaid benefits, but there are some regulations and limitations that apply.

Can you have SSDI with Medicare or Medicaid benefits at the same time?

Yes, it is possible to receive SSDI with Medicare or Medicaid benefits at the same time. In fact, many people who receive SSDI benefits are automatically enrolled in Medicare after a two-year waiting period. Medicaid eligibility varies by state, but in general, people who receive any amount of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits may also qualify for Medicaid coverage.

Does utilizing Medicare affect SSDI payment amounts?

No, utilizing Medicare does not affect SSDI payment amounts. The amount of SSDI benefits that a person receives is based on their average lifetime earnings and other factors such as their age, disability status, and work history. Medicare is a separate program that provides healthcare coverage to eligible individuals.

What are the regulations regarding personal income amounts that may affect Medicare and SSDI eligibility?

The regulations regarding personal income amounts that may affect Medicare and SSDI eligibility can be complex, and they vary depending on a number of factors such as age, disability status, and work history. However, in general, there are some key things to keep in mind.

  1. SSDI benefits are only available to people who have paid into the Social Security system through their employment. To be eligible for SSDI, a person must have earned enough credits based on their age and work history. The amount of credits required to be eligible for SSDI varies by age. 
  2. There are income limitations that may affect a person’s eligibility for both Medicare and Medicaid. For example, to be eligible for Medicaid, a person’s income must be below a certain level. 
  3. There are regulations regarding the amount of income a person can earn while receiving SSDI benefits. If a person earns more than a certain amount of money from working, it could potentially make them ineligible for SSDI benefits. This is known as the “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) limit. The SGA limit for 2024 is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 per month for blind individuals.
  4. There are regulations regarding the amount of income a person can earn while receiving some Medicare benefits.There are income limitations that may affect a person’s eligibility for Medicare Part B premiums. If a person’s income is above a certain level, they may be required to pay a higher premium for their Medicare coverage.

It is possible to receive SSDI and Medicare/Medicaid benefits at the same time. If you have questions about your eligibility for SSDI, Medicare, or Medicaid, it is important to speak with a qualified professional who can help you navigate the regulations and requirements. Reach out to one of our experienced disability attorneys for more information or for help applying for SSDI benefits. 

When you apply for SSDI, it can be a complicated and challenging process. From navigating complex eligibility requirements to providing the necessary medical evidence, there are many nuances to the application process. That’s why hiring an attorney who specializes in SSDI claims can make a big difference in the outcome of your application.

Completing Your Applications

One of the key benefits of hiring an attorney for your SSDI claim is that they can help ensure that your application is completed correctly and that all the necessary information is provided. This can increase the likelihood that your application will be approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Attorneys who specialize in SSDI claims are familiar with the eligibility requirements and know what types of medical evidence are necessary to support a claim. They can also help ensure that your application is submitted in a timely manner, which is crucial in the SSDI application process.

Easier Appeal Process

Another key benefit of hiring an attorney when you apply for SSDI is that they can help with the appeals process if your initial claim is denied. Many SSDI claims are denied initially, but an attorney can help you navigate the appeals process and request the necessary evidence to support your claim. This can significantly increase your chances of being approved for SSDI benefits.

Get Additional Backpay

In addition to helping with the application and appeals process, attorneys who specialize in SSDI claims can also help clients increase the amount of backpay they receive with their claims. The SSA often changes the date of disability onset, reducing the amount of backpay benefits. If you have already been approved for SSDI benefits but did not receive payments for all the months you were unable to work, an attorney can help you appeal the decision and get the benefits that you deserve. Attorneys can also help clients navigate the complex rules and regulations that govern SSDI benefits, ensuring that they are receiving the maximum amount of benefits possible.

What To Know About Hiring a Disability Attorney

One common misconception about hiring an attorney for your SSDI claim is that it is too expensive. However, most SSDI attorneys work on a contingency basis, which means that they only get paid if you win your claim. The fee is typically a percentage of your back pay, which is the amount of money that you are owed from the date of your disability to the date that your claim is approved. This means that you don’t have to pay any attorney fees upfront, and you can be confident that your attorney is working hard to get you the benefits that you deserve.

Another common misconception is that hiring an attorney is unnecessary if you have a strong case. However, even if you believe that you have a strong case, there are many nuances to the SSDI application process that an attorney can help you navigate. For example, an attorney can help ensure you avoid common mistakes that can result in your claim being denied or delayed.

Ready to apply for SSDI? Hiring an attorney who only works with Social Security disability claims can make a big difference in the outcome of your application. Our experienced disability attorneys can help ensure that your application is completed correctly and that all the necessary information is provided. We can also help expedite the appeals process if your initial claim is denied and ensure you receive compensation for all the eligible months you are rightfully entitled. If you are considering applying, appealing, or need assistance with an unfair approval, let us help you navigate the complex SSDI application process and get you the benefits you deserve.

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be a complicated and lengthy process. Unfortunately, there are many common mistakes that applicants make that can result in their claim being denied. In this article, we will discuss the top 10 most common mistakes to avoid when applying for SSDI.

1. Failing to meet the eligibility requirements

The first and most obvious mistake is to apply for SSDI without meeting the eligibility requirements. To qualify for SSDI, you must have a disability that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and that is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. You also need to have earned enough work credits by paying Social Security taxes over a certain period of time.

2. Waiting too long to apply

Many people make the mistake of waiting too long to apply for SSDI. The process can take several months or even years, so it is important to apply as soon as you become disabled and meet the eligibility requirements.

3. Not seeking medical treatment

It is essential to seek medical treatment for your disability and provide medical evidence to support your claim. Without medical evidence, it will be difficult to prove that you have a disabling condition that meets the eligibility requirements for SSDI.

4. Not following doctor’s orders

If you are not following your doctor’s orders and not doing what you can to manage your condition, it may be difficult to convince the Social Security Administration (SSA) that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working.

5. Not being honest about your condition

It is important to be honest and forthright about your condition when applying for SSDI. If you try to downplay your symptoms or exaggerate your limitations, it may raise red flags with the SSA and result in your claim being denied.

6. Failing to provide complete information

When applying for SSDI, it is important to provide complete and accurate information about your medical condition, work history, and other relevant information. Failure to provide complete information can result in delays or denial of your claim.

7. Not appealing a denied claim

If your claim is denied, it is important to appeal the decision within the timeframe allowed. Many claims are denied initially but are approved on appeal.

8. Failing to get help from an attorney or advocate

Navigating the SSDI application process can be complex and confusing. It is important to get help from an attorney or advocate who is experienced in SSDI claims.

9. Not following up on your claim

It is important to follow up on your claim and make sure that the SSA has received all the necessary information. Failure to follow up can result in delays or even denial of your claim.

10. Being impatient

Finally, it is important to be patient when applying for SSDI. The process can take several months or even years, and it is important to stay positive and persistent throughout the process.

Applying for SSDI can be a challenging and complicated process. However, by avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of success. Seek medical treatment, provide complete and accurate information, be honest about your condition, and get help from an experienced attorney or advocate. With patience, persistence, and some assistance from an experienced disability attorney, you can increase your chances of receiving the SSDI benefits you deserve.

Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and Social Security Income (SSI) are two types of government programs designed to provide financial assistance to those who are unable to work or have limited income. While these programs are helpful for those who are eligible, they can also have an impact on other government benefits like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid. Does social security disability count as income? Find out how getting disability benefits can affect ACA and other government program eligibility. 

Calculating Overall Income

When it comes to calculating overall income, SSDI and SSI payments are both considered sources of income. However, the way these payments are treated can differ depending on the program in question. For example, when determining eligibility for Medicaid, both SSDI and SSI payments are counted as income. This means that if your income exceeds the Medicaid income limit, you may not be eligible for the program. In some cases, individuals may need to spend down their income or assets in order to qualify for Medicaid.

Similarly, when it comes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), SSDI and SSI payments are counted as income. However, the amount of the payment is also taken into consideration. This means that if you receive a large SSDI or SSI payment, your SNAP benefit may be reduced or eliminated entirely. On the other hand, if your SSDI or SSI payment is relatively small, you may still be eligible for SNAP.

Affordable Care Act and SSDI

When it comes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), SSDI and SSI payments are not considered when determining eligibility for insurance. This means that even if you receive SSDI or SSI payments, you may still be eligible for ACA insurance. However, it is important to note that other factors, such as household income, may still impact eligibility. Additionally, those who receive SSDI or SSI may also be eligible for Medicare, which is a government-funded health insurance program for those over the age of 65 or certain disability recipients.

It is important to note that while SSDI and SSI payments are considered income for certain government programs, they are not considered taxable income by the IRS. This means that you will not have to pay taxes on your SSDI or SSI payments.

Consult with a Disability Attorney

Overall, SSDI and SSI payments can have a significant impact on your eligibility for other government programs. If you are receiving these types of payments, it is important to understand how they may impact your ability to receive benefits like Medicaid, ACA, SNAP, or other assistance programs. By working with one of the experienced disability attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill, you can confirm how your application for SSDI will affect other benefits you may be receiving and whether or not you will remain eligible for them in the future. Visit the website to schedule a free evaluation

As a person with a disability, you’ve likely relied on Social Security Disability (SSD) payments to help make ends meet. But when does Social Security Disability end, and what are your next steps?

When Does Social Security Disability End?

If you’re under full retirement age (between the ages of 62 and 67, depending on your birth year), your SSD benefits will end if you’re able to return to substantial gainful activity (earning more than a certain monthly amount from work). If you reach full retirement age while receiving SSD benefits, your payments will automatically convert to retirement benefits. However, if you continue to work and earn above the substantial gainful activity amount, your SSD benefits will end.

So, what can you do if your SSD benefits end or if you reach full retirement age and want to extend your disability payments?

File For An Extension

If you’re still unable to return to work, you can file for a continuation of your SSD benefits. This process is called a “review,” and it involves proving that your medical condition has not improved and that you’re still unable to work.

photo of desktop computer with a social security disability claim pulled up to show when social security disability end

Try Work Incentives

The Social Security Administration offers several work incentives to help people with disabilities return to work while still receiving some benefits. For example, the Ticket to Work program provides access to employment services and support, while the Impairment-Related Work Expense (IRWE) deduction allows you to deduct certain expenses related to your disability from your earnings.

Consider Transitioning to Social Security Income (SSI) at Age 65: 

If you reach full retirement age and your SSD benefits end, you may be eligible for SSI, which is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources. To be eligible, you’ll need to meet certain financial requirements and have a disability that’s expected to last for at least one year.

Transitioning from SSD to SSI can be a big change, but there are resources available to help you make the transition. For example, the Social Security Administration’s Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) program provides free, personalized assistance to help you understand the benefits and work incentives available to you.

Making the transition from SSD to SSI can be a challenging process, but with the right resources and support, it’s possible to maintain your financial stability.

Contact The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill

The end of your SSD benefits doesn’t have to signal the end of your financial support. Whether you’re able to extend your SSD payments, try work incentives or transition to SSI, there are options available to help you continue to live with dignity and security. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the disability attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill for assistance. 

Many of us have had discomfort or tingling in our hands and wrists, maybe as a result of spending too much time on our smartphones, typing on computers or working with tools. In other situations, this tingling and discomfort are caused by a disease known as carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome may result in a variety of symptoms. It may even impair your ability to do fundamental tasks such as typing, gripping a pen or pencil, or lifting and carrying items. If your carpal tunnel syndrome is severe enough that you are unable to work, you may be asking, can you get disability for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? 

What Is Carpal Tunnel

Carpal Tunnel is inflammation of the median nerve that passes through the carpal tunnel, a tiny canal enclosed by bones and ligaments. Carpal tunnel syndrome produces numbness, tingling, and arm weakness. A person with CTS may also lose strength in their hands and drop items. Causes of CTS include health issues, repetitive hand movements, and wrist structure.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the nerve is squeezed. Thanks to the median nerve, you can feel your thumb and fingers (other than the little finger). It also tells muscles surrounding your thumb’s base to move.

Obtaining Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Disability Benefits

To be eligible for Social Security Disability payments, you must demonstrate that you fulfill the requirements in one of the agency’s impairment listings (from the “blue book”), that your symptoms are substantial “equivalent” to the criteria in one of the impairment listings, or that you are unable to work any job due to your restrictions.

Unfortunately, Social Security claims examiners seldom conclude that the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome alone are severe enough to warrant disability. However, many disability applicants have been successful in obtaining disability payments on appeal by using one of the strategies listed below.

Meeting or equaling the requirements of an Impairment Listing

Carpal tunnel syndrome is not listed as a disability, but if there is nerve damage, your disease may be classified as peripheral neuropathy. However, the listing standards for peripheral neuropathy are very tough to achieve, much more so for someone who has carpal tunnel syndrome. When the carpal tunnel ligaments lead you to lose functional use of your wrists and hands, your condition may be classified as a soft tissue injury.

Alternatively, carpal tunnel syndrome may be a symptom of another condition that is listed as an impairment. Among the mentioned impairments that may cause or contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome are the following:

  • Diabetes
  • Arthritis
  • Lupus
  • Scleroderma
  • Renal failure

Medical Proof

Diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome might be difficult. Numerous test findings may increase the likelihood of a diagnosis of CTS. CTS is diagnosed by demonstrating three components: common symptoms, specific physical evidence, and aberrant electrodiagnostic test results, such as electromyography. 

While a diagnosis of CTS is beneficial, it is not sufficient to establish disability. You must establish your inability to work. Grip strength and dexterity tests may be used to demonstrate a decline in your ability to utilize your hands and fingers efficiently.

Inability to Work Due to Physical Impairments

If your carpal tunnel syndrome is severe enough, you may be eligible for disability payments if you demonstrate an inability to work. Social Security uses the Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) evaluation to determine your physical and mental capacity to do a job.

Carpal tunnel syndrome primarily impairs your physical skills, but the discomfort associated with it may impair your mental skills as well, such as your ability to focus.

Physical exertion and constraints

Social Security will evaluate your capacity to work depending on the degree of physical effort you are capable of doing. Social Security considers your capacity to lift, carry, and hold objects, as well as to conduct delicate manipulation with your fingers when determining your physical ability with your arms.

For those who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, difficulty with fine motor skills encompasses all tasks that require the use of one’s fingers. This makes performing a job that requires these skills nearly impossible. Additionally, weakness in your hands may make grasping and carrying things difficult, preventing you from doing tasks that need you to use handheld tools or pick up items with your hands.

Allowance for medical-vocational

Social Security recognizes that the loss of fine motor skills may severely limit the types of jobs available to persons who can only do sedentary or light labor. If your carpal tunnel syndrome is severe enough that your ability to use your hands is severely restricted, and Social Security believes your diagnosis of CTS and functional restrictions are believable, the agency may agree that you are unable to do any tasks that require “less than sedentary” employment. As a consequence, you may be eligible for benefits via a medical-vocational allowance.

Can You Get Disability For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome By Hiring An Attorney?

While the ailment is often manageable, it may develop serious enough that a person is unable to work due to discomfort and limits in their ability to use their hand and arm. If your CTS prevents you from working, you may be eligible for compensation.

At The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill, we are committed to assisting those with disabilities who are unable to work. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and answer the question, can YOU get disability for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome! We will assist you in gathering documents and assembling a compelling application for benefits, as well as advocating for you throughout the process!