Here are some things to know about Social Security Disability

As you know, the Social Security Administration will pay disability benefits to people who qualify based on their medical condition. Their medical condition must make it impossible for them to work and be one that will last for at least a year and/or result in death.

Applying for Social Security Disability is a complex process, which is why many people choose to work with attorneys and advocates as they begin the process. A denial, which many people do receive, can add months or years on to the approval process, so making sure your application is accurate is essential.

How do you know what you’ll receive if you’re approved for Social Security Disability benefits?

The amount you’ll receive is based on your average earnings covered by the Social Security Administration. For instance, if you work for 10 years and make $100,000 each year while paying into Social Security, you’ll likely have your payments based on that $100,000 income.

If you don’t have an estimate for what you should expect yet, you may want to go online to the Social Security Administration’s website. There, you can see your Social Security account and use the benefits calculator to see how much you could receive if you were disabled at the moment. This is not guaranteed, but it could give you a good idea of what to expect.

I’m supposed to receive Social Security Disability benefits this year, but I didn’t receive my January payment. Why?

Before you claim that you didn’t receive a payment, remember that SSDI is paid out a month after they’re due. So, if you’re supposed to get benefits in January, you’ll actually get the first check the following month. This is something many people don’t understand and are surprised to discover once they receive an approval.

When you are finally receiving benefits, remember that the benefit is paid for the sixth month after the date you became disabled. For instance, if you are hurt on January 1, you won’t receive your first benefit until the beginning of July. There is that six-month waiting period to consider.

With so many complex issues to think about when you seek Social Security, it’s important that you have someone who understands the laws and process on your team. If you do need to appeal, you may want to talk to your attorney about reviewing your application, so you can make sure it’s accurate and thorough.

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The Law Office of William C. Wombacher

Local: 309-674-8125
Fax: 309-674-8149

Commerce Bank Building
416 Main Street Suite 700
Peoria, IL 61602
NELF | National Elder Law Foundation
CAP | Council of Advanced Practitioners | NAELA | National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Inc.
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Illinois State Bar Association