Tag: ssdi

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. 

Many people qualifying for disability have one big question about the income they are going to be receiving. Is SSDI taxable? The question is not so simple to answer as it can vary based on your specific situation and location. Here is a breakdown of how taxable your SSDI may be.

Before receiving SSDI benefits, there are two major factors that must be in play to qualify for benefits. The first is the definition by which the government deems someone qualified to receive benefits:

First, the SSA says, “Your condition must significantly limit your ability to do basic work such as lifting, standing, walking, sitting, and remembering—for at least 12 months.” The condition must prevent you from doing the kind of work you did previously, and based on your age, education, experience, and transferable skills, you are unable to perform other work.

Additionally, you must have a pre-qualifying disability from the SSA’s Approved List and make less than $1310 in monthly wages.

SSDI has supported Americans since Social Security came into existence during the New Deal acts of the 1930s.

When do you pay Federal Tax for SSDI?

Generally, SSDI income is not taxable unless your federal taxable income is above a certain threshold. Currently, as of December 2020, the threshold for a single income amount that is not taxable is $25,000 and $32,000 when married and filing jointly.

State Tax Possibilities for SSDI

The above rules stand for federal taxation of SSDI, but what about State taxes? Historically, states have not taxed Social Security Income, including disability income. However, in recent years, some states have began implementing state-specific policies on how social security income is taxed. The following 13 states have their own policies in place:

  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Kansas
  • Minnesota
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • New Mexico
  • North Dakota
  • Rhode Island
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • West Virginia

The state regulations on social security income often mirror the Federal regulations and simply add a state-specific layer to the way your income is taxed, but in some states, the regulations and ruling can differ slightly.

How Are SSDI Taxes Calculated?

Your reported income for taxes does not necessarily include the entirety of your disability income. The way this is calculated is based on your other sources of income and a portion of your social security income. If your calculated total is below the threshold set in your state or federally, you will not receive any taxes on your disability income. Additionally, this means that if your disability benefits are increased for any reason, you would potentially get taxed on a portion of that increase.

All of this can be confusing to navigate. This is one of the many reasons people often seek council with an experienced attorney to help them make sure they take the best route possible for their specific needs.

Need Help Navigating SSDI and Taxes?

Many of the questions people have about the income they receive can blur the lines of legal support and accounting support. Let our experienced social security disability lawyers help! Our attorneys have specialized in Social Security Disability Income and SSI legal services for over 30 years and we are prepared to help you through the process! Schedule a free consultation with one of the experienced attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill.

It was never your plan to stop working before retirement. You’ve worked hard your entire life, but an unexpected medical condition keeps you from working now. Should you apply for SSDI benefits? The Social Security Administration has an updated list of medical conditions that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from working. So, what are the SSDI qualifying conditions? 

Conditions that Qualify Under SSDI

The Social Security Administration has a list of impairments for each major body system that may support an individual’s qualification for SSDI. These conditions are considered severe enough to prevent a person from having gainful employment to support themselves or their family. Many of the conditions listed are either permanent, have a specific duration, or are progressive illnesses. For all other listings, there must be evidence to support the condition is severe and will last for a period of at least 12 continuous months. 

SSDI Qualifying Conditions for Adults 18 and Over

Part A of the Listing of Impairments from the Social Security Administration covers adults that are 18 or older. The conditions include disorders affecting:

  • The Musculoskeletal System: These may result from hereditary, congenital, or acquired pathological processes as a result of inflammatory, infections, traumatic or developmental events or degenerative processes. 
  • Special Senses and Speech: This can include visual disorders such as blindness and requires measuring an individual’s visual fields. 
  • Respiratory Disorders: This can include disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, pneumoconiosis, asthma, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, chronic pulmonary hypertension, and lung transplantation. 
  •  Cardiovascular System: Impairment in this category may result from chronic heart failure or ventricular dysfunction, discomfort or pain due to myocardial ischemia, syncope or near syncope, or central cyanosis. 
  • Digestive System: Disorders can include liver dysfunction, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, short bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and malnutrition. 
  • Genitourinary Disorders: Examples can consist of chronic glomerulonephritis, hypertensive nephropathy, diabetic nephropathy, chronic obstructive uropathy, and hereditary nephropathies.
  • Hematological Disorders: Includes disorders that disrupt the normal development and function of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and clotting-factor proteins such as bone marrow failure, disorders of thrombosis and hemostasis, and hemolytic anemia. 
  • Skin Disorders: These may include disorders affecting the skin such as ichthyosis, bullous diseases, hidradenitis suppurativa, chronic infections of the skin or mucous membranes, burns, dermatitis, and genetic photosensitivity disorders.
  • Endocrine Disorders: This can include disorders affecting the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, adrenal gland, pancreatic gland, and more. 
  • Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems: This included non-mosaic Down syndrome.
  • Neurological Disorders: This can include epilepsy, amyotrophic sclerosis, coma or persistent vegetative states, or early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. 
  • Mental Disorders: There are 11 categories of mental disorders including schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, neurodevelopmental disorders, and more. 
  • Cancer: This includes all cancers, except for certain cancers associated with an HIV infection. 
  • Immune System: Include immune dysfunction due to impaired cell-mediated immunity, issues with antibody production, and more. 

Visit the SSA website to see the full description of each disorder.

SSDI Qualifying Conditions for Children Under 18

Part B of the Listing of Impairments from the Social Security Administration covers children under 18 years old. The conditions included are:

  • Low Birth Weight and Failure to Thrive: Low birth weight is evaluated in children from birth to age 1 and failure to thrive from birth to age 3. 
  • Musculoskeletal System: Defined as the inability to ambulate effectively or perform fine and gross movements effectively.
  • Special Senses and Speech: Visual disorders, including blindness.
  • Respiratory Disorders: Includes chronic lung disease of infancy, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, or cystic fibrosis. 
  • Cardiovascular System: Impairment in this category may result from chronic heart failure or ventricular dysfunction, discomfort or pain due to myocardial ischemia, syncope or near syncope, or central cyanosis. 
  • Digestive System: Disorders can include liver dysfunction, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, short bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and malnutrition. 
  • Genitourinary Disorders: Includes diabetic neuropathy, hypertensive neuropathy, chronic glomerulonephritis, chronic obstructive uropathy, and hereditary nephropathies. 
  • Hematological Disorders: Includes disorders that disrupt the normal development and function of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and clotting-factor proteins such as bone marrow failure, disorders of thrombosis and hemostasis, and hemolytic anemia. 
  • Skin Disorders: Impairments under this category can include dermatitis, hidradenitis, ichthyosis, suppurativa, burns, genetic photosensitivity disorders, or infections of the skin or mucous membranes.
  • Endocrine Disorders: This can include disorders affecting the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, adrenal gland, pancreatic gland, and more.
  • Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems: Includes non-mosaic Down syndromes.
  • Neurological Disorders: Includes epilepsy, coma, or persistent vegetative states as well as neurological disorders that cause bulbar and neuromuscular dysfunction, disorganization of motor function, or communication impairment. 
  • Mental Disorders: Can include intellectual disorders, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders, developmental disorders in infants and toddlers, autism spectrum disorders, and more. 
  • Cancer: All cancers are evaluated except for those associated with an HIV infection. 
  • Immune System Disorders: Include immune dysfunction due to impaired cell-mediated immunity, issues with antibody production, and more. 

Visit the SSA website to see the full description of each disorder.

Ready to Apply for SSDI Benefits?

There are other factors that are considered when the Social Security Administration determines whether you qualify for SSDI benefits. If you think you may be eligible for SSDI, the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill can help. Having practiced disability law for more than 30 years, we are experienced lawyers for social security disability – ready to assist you with every step of the application process. If you were previously denied SSDI benefits, our experienced attorneys can also help you with the appeal process. Contact us today for a free consultation. 

Should I Apply for SSDI On My Own?

Suppose you’ve spent most of your life working hard and paying into Social Security and are now unable to continue due to your age or a decline in your health. In that case, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). There are many qualifying factors that determine if you are eligible for SSDI, such as whether you can continue working, how severe your condition is, and whether you can do another type of work, to name a few. If you believe you qualify, the next step is applying for SSDI benefits. Once you’re ready to apply, you might be wondering, “should I apply for SSDI on my own?” Acquiring assistance from an experienced disability attorney can make the process easier and increase your chances of being approved. 

What Is Involved In The SSDI Application Process?

Though it may appear as though applying for SSDI is as simple as filling out a few forms, there is much more that goes into the application process. There is an extensive amount of paperwork and communication with the Social Security Administration required for a successful outcome. Additionally, your medical evidence must be obtained and evaluated. 

Information Needed to Apply for SSDI Benefits

To apply for SSDI benefits, information regarding you, your medical condition, and your work history will be needed. 

Personal Information

Applying for SSDI benefits may require personal information such as:

  • Your date and place of birth
  • Your social security number
  • Your current or former spouse’s social security number and date of birth as well as the place of marriage and date of divorce or death if applicable
  • Name and birth dates of any children who are minors
  • Your banking information including bank name and routing number or account number

Medical Information

Medical information needed when applying for SSDI may include:

  • Name, address, and telephone number of someone who knows details about your medical condition to assist with application process
  • Names of medications you are taking and the prescribing doctor
  • Dates and names of any medical tests you have undergone 
  • Dates of treatments you have had along with names, addresses, phone numbers, and patient ID of the corresponding doctors or medical facility in which the care took place

Work Information

Your work history will play a part in determining your eligibility. Information needed may include:

  • Names and addresses of employers from the current year and year prior
  • The amount of money earned in the current year and previous year
  • A list of up to five jobs you have had in the last 15 years with dates of employment
  • A copy of your Social Security Statement
  • The start and end dates of any active-duty U.S. military service prior to 1968
  • Information regarding any workers’ compensation benefits you field or intended to file for

Benefits of Hiring a Disability Attorney to Apply for SSDI

When you choose to hire a disability attorney to assist you in the SSDI application process, you increase the likelihood that your application will be approved. A disability attorney is familiar with the Social Security Administration and the rules that pertain to SSDI applicants. They are also available to assist you in the long process of acquiring the necessary documents to help prove your eligibility. An experienced staff member will complete your application and review your information while checking for missing details or inconsistencies that could affect your approval. Errors and omissions may negatively impact your claim and could result in being denied SSDI benefits. If this happens, you can file an appeal, but this may cause a delay in receiving your benefits. 

Get Help Applying for SSDI Benefits

The disability attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill understand the SSDI application process and want to make it as easy as possible for you. Having practiced disability law for more than 30 years, we are experienced lawyers for social security disability – ready to assist you with every step of the application process. Many people assume it is easy to be awarded benefits, but it’s not that simple. Applying for SSDI benefits is a complicated legal process that you shouldn’t have to navigate alone. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our disability attorneys. 

Working hard for the majority of your life and then encountering an unexpected medical condition that keeps you from working can feel frustrating, scary, and uncertain. Throughout your career, you paid into the Social Security system, meaning you may be eligible for financial relief through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). 

SSDI Qualifications

Applying for SSDI is a complex process the requires a lot of information and documents. To qualify for SSDI, there are some specific requirements. The Social Security Administration (SSA) first needs to determine whether or not your medical condition qualifies as a disability under its guidelines which include:

  • Being unable to do the work you previously performed
  • Being unable to adjust to doing other work
  • Having a severe medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death

The SSA will also ask questions such as:

What If I Was Denied SSDI?

Being in a situation where you need SSDI benefits can be challenging and stressful enough. Finding out that you have been denied social security disability might feel frightening, but do your best to remain hopeful. If you were denied SSDI you can appeal the decision for another chance to be approved. In fact, most disability benefits claims are denied on the first attempt, particularly those who apply themselves without the assistance of a disability attorney. By enlisting the help of an experienced disability attorney, you can begin the appeal process with assistance. 

Why Was My SSDI Claim Denied? 

There are many reasons why the Social Security Administration might deny an SSDI application. Some of them may include:

  • Earning too much money
  • Failure to show medical proof
  • An error in medical evidence submission
  • Not following your doctor’s suggested treatments
  • The SSA is unable to reach you
  • Filing the incorrect claim type

The good news is that some of these reasons for denial can be reevaluated in the appeals process. An experienced attorney will understand the reasons for your denial and increase your chances of being awarded SSDI when you appeal. 

What Can I Do After My SSDI Claim Was Denied?

If your SSDI claim was denied, you can begin the appeal process. There are four levels of appeal:

  • Request for Reconsideration
  • Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge
  • Appeals Council Request for Review
  • Federal District Court review

It is not recommended to attempt an SSDI denial without the assistance of an experienced disability attorney. There is a considerable amount of paperwork, medical evidence, and communication that will be needed during the application or appeal process. No one should have to fight for the benefits they deserve alone. Having an attorney assist you with the disability process will increase your chances of being approved. Disability attorneys have a vast knowledge of the Social Security claims process as well as insights into the specific requirements to get an approval. 

Get Help Appealing SSDI Benefits with The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill

At the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill in Columbia, MO, we have years of experience assisting people just like you in the SSDI appeals process. Having practiced disability law for more than 30 years, we are experienced lawyers for social security disability, ready to help you with every step of the application process. Right now, we understand that you may feel very confused or you might feel like giving up, but please know that denial isn’t the end of the road. We know that a lot is riding on whether or not you get approved, and that’s why we want to do everything we can to help you get a favorable outcome. If you were denied social security disability benefits, contact us today for a free evaluation. 

You’ve worked hard all your life, and the last thing you wanted or expected was a medical condition that keeps you from work. While you were working deductions were taken from each paycheck and paid into the Social Security system. If you can’t work because of your health condition, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. The SSDI program is available to hard-working people that paid into the system and deserve financial relief.  So, how do you know if you are eligible for SSDI? 

What Qualifies As A Disability?

Social Security defines disability differently than other programs, and benefits are not payable for short-term disability or partial disability. Under Social Security, a disability exists when: :

  • You are unable to do the work that you did before.
  • Social Security determines that you are unable to adjust to doing other work. 
  • Your severe medical condition is expected to last at least one year or will result in death.

How Does Social Security Decide If I Am Disabled?

Social Security uses a step by step process to determine if someone qualifies for disability benefits. 

1. Are you working? 

If you are working and earn more than an average of $1,260 per month, you likely won’t be considered disabled. 

2. Is your condition severe? 

For at least 12 months, your condition must limit your ability to do basic work significantly.

3. Is your condition found on the list of disabling conditions?

Social Security keeps an updated list of medical conditions that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from working. 

4. Can you do the work you did previously?

If your health condition prevents you from doing the same type of work you did in the past, you may be eligible for SSDI. 

5. Can you do another type of work?

If your health condition limits you from performing other types of work, you may be eligible for SSDI.

 

If you think you might be eligible for SSDI, the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill can assist you with an application. Call us for a free consultation. 

 

Medical Conditions That Qualify for SSDI

As of 2020, the list of medical conditions that qualify for SSDI have been updated and include the following:

  • Cancer
  • Musculoskeletal problems such as a back injury
  • Kidney disease and genitourinary problems
  • Cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure or coronary artery disease
  • Digestive tract problems such as IBD or liver disease
  • Senses and speech issues such as vision and hearing loss
  • Skin disorders such as dermatitis
  • Respiratory illnesses such as COPD or asthma
  • Immune system disorders such as HIV/AIDS, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Neurological disorders such as MS, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, or epilepsy
  • Mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, or autism
  • Various syndromes such as Marfan Syndrome and Sjogren’s Syndrome
  • Hematological disorders such as disorders of bone marrow 

A more in-depth list for adults and children is available on the Social Security website. 

How Many Work Credits Are Needed?

The other main criteria that determine your eligibility for SSDI are whether or not you earned enough work credits during your employment. The number of credits required varies from person to person and more specific guidelines can be found on the Social Security Administration website. Your work credits and qualifications will be determined on an individual basis.

Speak with a Disability Attorney

If you can no longer work due to a medical condition, you may be entitled to compensation through Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. Let the Social Security Disability attorneys at the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill help with your claim for disability benefits by contacting us today. 

If you need SSI or SSDI during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the Law Office of Karen Kraus Bill can still assist you! 

Get a Free Consultation

At the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill, we are offering free consultations by phone to help you get relief during the coronavirus pandemic. Just because you aren’t able to leave your house, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be able to take care of important things like getting your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) benefits. In a time where the economy is feeling unstable, and the world around us is in a state of uncertainty, we are prepared to help you get the income you need. 

Want to Learn More About Social Security Benefits?

If you are considering applying for SSDI or SSI, but not sure if you are eligible or where to start, keep reading for more information.

Can I Apply for SSDI?

If you are under the age of 65 and have earned a particular number of work credits, you may qualify as a candidate for Social Security Disability Income. You may be eligible for SSDI if you:

  • Are under the age of 65
  • Worked 5 out of the last 10 years
  • Have a mental or physical impairment

Federal law defines disabled as someone unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

Can I Apply for SSI?

Supplemental Security Income may be one of the most applicable social security benefits during the pandemic outbreak of COVID-19. You could qualify if you:

  • Have a limited income 
  • Have less than $2,000 in assets as an individual OR
  • Have less than $3,000 in assets as a couple

Individuals of any age, children included, can apply for SSI if they are disabled and have limited to no income or resources. Individuals over the age of 65 can qualify, regardless of their medical condition. 

Need to Appeal an SSI or SSDI Denial?

If you have already applied for SSI or SSDI yourself and have been denied, The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill can assist you during the appeals process. There is only a short time frame available to appeal, so as soon as you know you have been denied, contact us for a free phone consultation. Applications can often be denied due to mistakes, misinformation, or unsuccessful attempts to collect necessary medical information when an individual attempts to apply on their own. Having a skilled attorney who is experienced in handling disability law cases can mean the difference between being approved and denied.

Call Karen Kraus Bill Today

If you are ready to schedule a virtual consultation, visit our website to fill out the contact form or call us at 573-875-5200.

You’ve worked hard all your life, but now you’re unable to continue working due to your declining health, or maybe you’ve reached an age where you simply can’t anymore. You might be wondering if you are eligible for Social Security disability benefits. Which type of claim is right for you? Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are disability benefit programs run by the Social Security Administration. The differences between these two programs can be confusing, so let’s discuss the major distinctions.

Social Security Disability Insurance

Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is considered an “entitlement program” that is generally available to anyone who has paid into the Social Security system for the last ten years. These recipients are considered “insured” because they have made their contribution to the Social Security trust fund through paying FICA Social Security taxes. SSDI provides benefits to people who cannot work enough due to certain medical conditions or disabilities. The amount of SSDI payments vary based on the beneficiary’s earnings record. SSDI recipients are eligible for medicare.

Who Can Apply for SSDI?

To be a candidate for SSDI, a person must have earned a particular number of work credits and be under the age of 65. Generally, an eligible individual would need to have worked at least five out of the last ten years. Federal law has strict definitions of disability, stating that the medical condition causing the disability be one that is expected to last one year or more, or potentially result in death. People with short-term or partial disabilities would not qualify. 

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is considered a “needs-based program,” meaning it is strictly for low-income American citizens and is funded by general taxes rather than from the Social Security trust fund. The standard federal SSI payment is a set amount that changes yearly based on the Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA). Additionally, most people who receive SSI will immediately qualify for benefits through Medicaid. 

Who Can Apply for SSI?

To meet the requirements for SSI, a person must have a very limited income and less than $2,000 in assets, or less than $3,000 for a couple. Most people who would qualify for SSI would also qualify for food stamps. Individuals over the age of 65 can qualify for SSI (regardless of their medical condition) if the income requirements are met. A person of any age, even children, can apply for SSI if they are disabled and have limited to no resources or income. 

Get Help Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

It can be risky to apply for SSDI or SSI on your own. Many applications are initially denied due to mistakes or misinformation, unsuccessful attempts to collect medical evidence, and/or a failure to cooperate with the Social Security Administration. If your disability benefits application has been denied, we can help. There is a small window of time to appeal your denial, and statistics show you are more likely to get approved with the assistance of an attorney who is familiar with disability law.

Call Karen Kraus Bill

The Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill has extensive experience handling disability law cases for SSDI or SSI. It is beneficial to have a skilled attorney on your side to help you get all of the necessary records in order to create the strongest application possible. We can also represent you during the appeals process if you were previously denied. We are ready to focus on winning your disability case so you can continue to take care of your health. Contact us today!