SSDI Benefits Compensate Income Loss

Loss of income is a serious concern for people who are unable to work because of a disability. However, there is help available. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides disability benefits for qualifying individuals who can no longer work because of their medical condition.Disability compensation is calculated from lifetime average earnings that could range from below $600 to more than $2,000 per month, depending on a person's work history. If you are out of work because of a disability you could qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.SSDI Qualifying FactorsWhat are some of SSA's qualifying factors for approval??You must have an SSA-qualifying medical condition.You must have worked approximately five out of 10 years from when you became disabled and have paid into the Social Security System through FICA taxes.Your disability has kept you from working for at least 12 months, or may result in death.Your condition is preventing you from earning above the level of substantial gainful activity (SGA) of $940 per month ($1,570 if you have a visual disability)Disability Income-How Long and How Much? You receive disability income for as long as you remain unable to work or until you reach full retirement age and can take your Social Security retirement benefits. You shouldn't expect to get an increase in disability compensation if your condition worsens. Your cash payment is not determined on the severity of your disability. It is determined by how much you have earned throughout your working years. Your cash benefit may get reduced, however, if you are getting disability income from other government sources, such as Workers' Compensation or other federal, state or local government agencies that provide civil service disability benefits, or disability retirement benefits. If you are getting Veterans Administration benefits or are receiving a private pension or private insurance disability payment, your SSDI cash amount is not affected.The Social Security Disability Insurance program was established to help people with disabilities get through financial hardship. If you can't earn a living because of a disability, SSDI insurance is a good option for you to consider. You can apply for SSA disability compensation benefits, either on your own or with the help of professional Social Security Advocates or Attorneys. Experts who understand the SSDI program can guide you through the application process. Once approved, it will be a relief to know that you can expect a steady flow of disability income every month.