Tag: ssdi

If you’re living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), everyday tasks can become exhausting. Breathing might feel like a constant struggle, and working a regular job may no longer be an option. You may be wondering: does COPD qualify for disability? This guide breaks down how the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates COPD for disability benefits, what you’ll need to qualify, and how to strengthen your claim.

How the SSA Looks at COPD for Disability Benefits

COPD appears under Section 3.02 of the SSA’s listing of impairments, which covers chronic respiratory disorders. To approve benefits, the SSA requires medical evidence that your condition prevents you from working full-time.

What Medical Evidence Is Needed?

You’ll need objective test results and consistent documentation. This includes:

  • Pulmonary function tests like spirometry (FEV₁ and FVC results)
  • Arterial blood gas (ABG) tests
  • Imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans
  • Notes from pulmonologists or treating doctors
  • Detailed medical records showing the severity and persistence of your symptoms

If your test results match or exceed the thresholds listed by the SSA, your COPD could meet the medical requirements on its own. If not, they’ll assess your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC). RFC provides a detailed summary of what physical or mental activities you can still do despite your condition.

Does COPD Qualify for Disability in Most Cases?

It depends on the severity of your symptoms, your work history, and how much your condition interferes with daily life. So the question “does COPD qualify for disability” doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer.

Stronger Cases Usually Share These Traits:

  • Stage 3 or 4 COPD: You may qualify if your COPD makes breathing hard even at rest or with light activity.
  • Over age 50: The SSA uses special rules for applicants over 50 that make it easier to qualify if retraining for new work would be difficult.
  • Additional Health Conditions: People with COPD often also have heart disease, diabetes, or depression. When combined, these conditions can strengthen a disability claim.
  • Long Work History with Enough Work Credits: To receive SSDI, you must have worked long enough to qualify. For most people, this means five out of the last ten years.

How to Build a Strong COPD Disability Claim

Knowing that your condition might qualify isn’t enough. You’ll need to present your case with clarity, consistency, and solid evidence. Here’s how to do it:

1. Organize Your Medical Records

Include everything from test results to hospital visits to medications. Make sure your pulmonologist documents how often you experience flare-ups, fatigue, and difficulty completing daily tasks.

2. Show How COPD Affects Your Life

The SSA wants to know how your condition impacts your ability to function, not just how it looks on paper. Explaining your specific limitations will help strengthen your case. 

3. Get Detailed RFC Assessments

Ask your doctor to complete an RFC form that clearly outlines your physical limitations. This can be one of the most influential parts of your file. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill create specific RFC forms to send to doctors to target limitations that eliminate jobs. 

4. Don’t Give Up if You’re Denied

Many people with COPD are denied on their first application. Appealing is common and often necessary. The appeal process gives you a chance to submit more evidence and possibly appear at a hearing. With legal guidance, appeals often result in a favorable outcome.

So, Does COPD Qualify for Disability?

Yes, COPD can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, especially when it significantly limits your ability to breathe, walk, stand, or carry out other tasks. The SSA will need clear medical evidence and a strong explanation of how your condition keeps you from working.

If you’re struggling to manage work and daily life due to COPD, don’t wait to start your claim. A well-prepared application improves your chances of success and getting the support you need.

Start Your Claim the Right Way With the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill

If you’ve asked yourself, does COPD qualify for disability, now is the time to take the next step. Begin gathering your medical records, talk to your doctor about documenting your limitations, and understand your eligibility for SSDI. COPD already takes so much from your life. Don’t let it take away your financial stability too. With the right preparation, your claim can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Need help getting started or appealing a denial? Contact The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill for a free case evaluation. Our team helps individuals in Missouri navigate the disability claims process every day. Let’s work together to move your claim forward.

Understanding how Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) compensates you for past unpaid benefits can be confusing. We’ve helped mid-Missouri clients for decades from our Columbia, Missouri office. Knowing the difference between SSDI back pay vs retroactive pay can help you set clearer expectations as you navigate the SSDI process.

What Is SSDI Back Pay?

SSDI back pay covers the time between the date you applied for disability benefits and the date the Social Security Administration (SSA) approved your claim. The approval process often takes several months, sometimes over a year. During that waiting period, you might have had no income while unable to work. Back pay helps bridge that financial gap.

How SSA Determines Back Pay

The SSA sets the date you became disabled, known as your “established onset date” (EOD), based on your application and medical evidence. From your EOD, there is a mandatory five-month waiting period before benefits start. This means that your back pay will begin on the sixth full month after your EOD.

If your claim takes 12 months to approve and the SSA agrees with your original onset date, you will likely receive seven months’ worth of back pay (12 months minus the five-month waiting period). SSDI back pay is typically issued in a lump sum. Alternatively, SSI never pays for months before filing, and larger SSI back-pay awards are often paid in installments. 

What Is Retroactive Pay?

Retroactive pay goes a step further back. It compensates you for the time between the onset of your disability and the date you filed your SSDI application. SSDI can pay up to 12 months for time before you applied, as long as your medical evidence proves your disability began that far back and after the five-month wait. To receive the full 12 months of retro, the EOD must be at least 17 months before filing.

Key Requirements for Retroactive Pay

To qualify for retroactive benefits, you must prove that your disability started before your application date. The SSA requires strong medical documentation to support your claim. If your disability began 15 months before you applied, the SSA may award you up to 12 months of retroactive pay if your evidence supports that timeline. Many applicants do not receive retroactive pay because they delay applying for SSDI. Filing your claim promptly after you stop working due to a disability increases your chances of receiving both back pay and retroactive benefits.

SSDI Back Pay vs Retroactive Pay: Key Differences

Understanding SSDI back pay vs retroactive pay starts with recognizing how they’re calculated and the timelines they address.

  • Back pay starts after your application date and covers the waiting time for SSA approval, minus the five-month waiting period.
  • Retroactive pay starts before your application date and can go back up to one year, but only if you prove your disability began before you applied.

Example
 You became disabled January 1, 2023, filed for SSDI in October 2023, and were approved in August 2024. SSA agrees your disability began January 2023. 

  • The five full waiting months are January-May 2023, so your first payable month is June 2023.
  • Retroactive benefits (before you applied): July–September 2023.
  • Back pay (after you applied): October 2023–August 2024.

Why the Timing of Your Application Matters

One of the most important steps you can take is to apply for SSDI as soon as you believe your disability prevents you from working. Waiting to file can reduce or eliminate any retroactive pay you might be eligible for. Medical records, doctor statements, and work history play a major role in determining how far back your benefits can go. An earlier application also helps lock in your protective filing date, which can make a big difference in your total payout.

Tips for Maximizing Your SSDI Pay

To ensure you receive every dollar you’re entitled to, take these actions:

  • Apply as soon as possible after becoming disabled.
  • Keep detailed medical records and regularly update your file.
  • Work with a disability attorney who can help gather and present the right evidence.
  • Follow up regularly with the SSA to check your claim status and ensure your file is complete.

Knowing the rules around SSDI back pay vs retroactive pay helps you avoid costly delays and missed benefits.

Contact The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill For Assistance

Missing out on retroactive benefits or months of back pay could cost you thousands of dollars. The legal team at The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill understands the rules that govern SSDI back pay vs retroactive pay and can help you secure every benefit you’re eligible to receive. If you’re waiting on a decision or preparing to file, don’t try to figure it all out alone. Call us today at 573-875-5200 or fill out our online form to get a free evaluation and let us pursue every dollar you’re owed.

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 a person applies for Supplemental Security disability benefits and is denied, they have the right to appeal the decision. Winning an SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) or SSI (Supplemental Security Income) appeal can be a long and difficult process, but it is possible if you know what to do. Learn how to apply for SSI and SSDI, along with some common issues that cause the Social Security Administration (SSA) to deny applications, how to avoid making mistakes during the appeal process, and whether to hire an attorney when handling an appeal.

Common Issues that Cause the SSA to Deny Disability Applications

There are several common issues that cause the SSA to deny applications, including:

  • Lack of medical evidence – The SSA requires extensive medical evidence to support an SSDI or SSI claim. If a person does not have enough medical evidence to support their claim, they may get a denial.
  • Failure to follow treatment – The SSA expects that a person will follow their prescribed treatment plan. If a person does not follow their treatment plan, the SSA may deny their application.
  • Non-medical issues – To be eligible for SSDI or SSI, a person must meet the non-medical rules. If a person hasn’t worked long enough and/or doesn’t meet the income requirements they may receive a denial even if medically disabled. 
  • Failure to cooperate – The SSA may deny an application if a person fails to provide the necessary information or documentation.

Avoiding Mistakes During the Appeal Process

To win a disability appeal, it is important to avoid making mistakes during the appeal process. Here are some tips to help you avoid mistakes:

  • Get organized – Make sure that you have all of the necessary documentation and evidence to support your claim and keep all of your paperwork and medical records in one place. 
  • Follow up with your healthcare provider – Make sure that you are following your healthcare provider’s treatment plan and that you are attending all of your appointments.
  • Be honest – Provide the SSA with honest and accurate information. If you are misrepresenting information, it could harm your case.
  • Hire a disability attorney – An experienced attorney can help you navigate the appeal process and increase your chances of winning your case.

Should You Hire a Disability Attorney?

While it is not required to hire an attorney for assistance on your SSI or SSDI claim, it can increase your chances of approval. An attorney can help you prepare your case and gather the necessary evidence to support your claim. They can also help you navigate how to apply for SSI and SSDI, and represent you at the hearing. A disability attorney can increase your chances of winning your case, especially if you have a complicated case or if you have been denied.

Is There a Limit to How Many Times A Person Can Apply for Disability?

There is no limit to how many times a person can apply for disability benefits. However, it is important to note that the SSA will require individuals to follow the appeal process and can deny a new application due to the concept of res judicata. The appeals process can take a long time, and each appeal level can take several months or even years to be processed. It is important to discuss your claim with an experienced attorney to decide if an application or appeal is the appropriate next step for your claim.

Winning a disability appeal can be a difficult process, but your chances are higher with professional help. By avoiding common mistakes, getting organized, and hiring an attorney, you can increase your chances of an approval. If you are denied SSDI or SSI benefits, do not give up. Keep fighting for the benefits you need and deserve.

If you have applied for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and have been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision and have a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The hearing is a critical stage of the appeals process, as it gives you the opportunity to present your case in person and explain why you believe you are entitled to benefits. Here are some tips on how to prepare for an SSDI appeal hearing.

Obtain and Review Your File

Before the hearing, it is important to obtain a copy of your file from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and review it carefully. This will help you understand the evidence that the SSA used to deny your claim and give you an idea of what to expect during the hearing.

Gather Additional Evidence

If there are any gaps in your medical records or if there is additional evidence that supports your claim for disability, gather this evidence and submit it to the SSA before the hearing. This can include medical records from new doctors, letters from previous employers, statements from family and friends, and additional evidence that supports your claim.

Work With an Experienced SSDI Attorney

An experienced SSDI attorney can help you prepare for the hearing by ensuring your file is complete, gathering additional evidence, and helping you understand what to expect during the hearing. Your attorney can also represent you at the hearing and advocate for your disability benefit approval. An experienced attorney should have knowledge of the judge you will face and familiarity with the hearing process. 

Be Prepared to Answer Questions

During the hearing, the ALJ will ask you questions about your disability, your medical history, and your work history. It is important to be prepared to answer these questions honestly and in detail. You can write down notes with information that you will likely need to answer these questions and keep this with you during your hearing. 

Be Respectful

During the hearing, be respectful and polite to everyone involved. This includes the ALJ, the vocational expert (VE), and any other witnesses who may testify. Your credibility and integrity is important to the judge. 

Stay Calm and Focused

Finally, stay calm and focused during the hearing. It is natural to feel nervous or anxious, but try to stay focused on the questions being asked and answer them to the best of your ability. 

Contact An Experienced Disability Attorney

Adequately preparing for a social security disability hearing requires several detailed steps. With the right preparation and experience, you can present a strong case for disability benefits to increase your chances of obtaining the financial support you need. One of the most important steps in preparing for an SSDI appeal hearing is to seek help from an experienced disability attorney. Contact one of our attorneys today to learn how we can assist you in applying or appealing for disability benefits.

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.

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.

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. 

A very common question people want to know the answer to is: what information is needed to complete an SSDI application? Although the information is available online through the Social Security Administration website, it can still be confusing to figure out exactly what is needed to complete your application or, furthermore, increase the likelihood that your application will be approved. Let’s discuss the ins and outs of what is needed as well as what is not needed for your application, as well as some professional legal tips to increase the possibility of your application being accepted. 

Review Adult Disability Checklist

It is recommended that every applicant review the Adult Disability Checklist provided directly by the U.S. Social Security department. The checklist has a lot of information but can also be confusing for some individuals. We will break down the items needed for your SSDI application along with some insights to the various sections of the application to make it easier to organize the required information. 

Create a My Social Security Account

Before beginning the application, it is recommended to create a My Social Security Account. This can require additional forms of verification to set up, such as your mobile phone to receive texts, an email address for the account, and in some cases, a W-2, tax form, or credit card to aid the verification process. Creating an account allows you to track the status of your application throughout the process.

The Information You Need

1. Date and Place of Birth

Initially, the application intends to validate and confirm your U.S. Citizenship before continuing. This is done through the account creation process, but if you were born outside of the U.S., it is required to provide your birth country and time or your Permanent Resident Card if you are not a U.S. Citizen. 

2. Marriage and Divorce

You are required to provide the name of your current spouse or previous spouse if the marriage lasted over ten years or ended in death. Your spouse’s date of birth and social security numbers are optional but can help further validate your application. Lastly, you need to provide the beginning and ending dates of your current marriage and past marriages, including the dates and city/state/country in which you were married. 

3. Names and Dates of Birth of Children

You will also need to provide the details about your children, including any of your children that became disabled prior to the age of 22, any that are under 18 and are unmarried, or any children aged 18-19 that are in secondary school full time. If you have children over the age of 18 that are not disabled or in school, then their information is not required. 

4. Military Service

If you have served in the military, it is important to also include the type of duty and branch you worked in as well as your service period dates. This can help the Social Security office further evaluate your case. 

5. 3 Years of Employment Details

You will also need to provide your employment details for the current year and two prior years before your application. This needs to include start and end dates, total earnings, and the company and employer name of who you worked for. 

6. Self-Employment Details

If you are self-employed or were self-employed for the current year and 2 years prior, you will need to provide information about the type of business and total net income of your business. 

7. Direct Deposit

You must include your bank routing number, account type, and bank account number to receive your SSDI or SSI payments. This can also go to an international bank, but requires additional info such as the country of the bank, bank name, bank code, and currency type. 

8. Alternate Contact

An additional contact must be provided in order to have someone to contact regarding your medical conditions so they can help you with your claim. This can be your lawyer in the event that you have representation during your application process or are working with a law firm like ours. 

9. List of Medical Conditions

This is one of the most important sections of the application as this is the information that will largely determine your eligibility for social security. It is best to be as thorough as possible in this section. You should include:

  • Names, addresses, phone numbers, patient ID numbers if applicable, and dates of any examinations or treatments received. 
  • Names and dates of medical tests you have had and who placed the test orders
  • Names of medications, reason for medication, and who they were prescribed by
  • Info about additional medical records like vocational rehabilitation services, workers’ compensation, public welfare, prison medical records, records from an attorney, or any other place that may have additional records about your disability needs. 
  • The date your medical condition began and how it affects your ability to work
  • Types of jobs you have had over the 15 years prior to you becoming unable to work because of your condition
  • Types of duties you had on the longest-standing job from your list
  • Highest grade in school completed and any special education including the dates, school name, city, and state
  • Names of any special job training schools, trade schools, or vocational schools, along with dates of completed course work. 

Although this can be a painstakingly long process to collect all of this information, the more thorough you are with the information provided, the more likely your case is to be accepted. Providing additional information could also affect the amount of Social Security Income you are awarded should your application be accepted. 

Contact a Disability Lawyer for Help with Your SSDI Application 

Working with an attorney experienced in disability law can ensure that your SSDI application is as complete and thorough as possible. Application denials can, in some cases, result in months of waiting for an appeal. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill are ready to assist you today. Contact us today for a free evaluation.