Many Americans have a limited understanding of the disability benefits available from the Social Security Administration (SSA). This federal government agency provides benefit programs to individuals with serious disabilities and to their families.
The difference between Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) are available to disabled workers who paid enough earnings into the Social Security system. SSA determines if you are eligible for DIB, based on your work history during the years before you became totally disabled. As a general rule, you probably have enough work credits to qualify, if you worked for 5 out of the last 10 years.
The following factors determine eligibility for DIB:
- Whether or not you have enough work credits to qualify for disability benefits.
- Whether or not you have an impairment that has lasted, or is expected to last, for at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death.
- The nature and extent of your impairment.
- Your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity since your impairment began.
The fine print: As an important formality, be aware that we do not represent any person until we both agree in writing that we will represent you. This article is for discussion purposes only. We give legal advice only in the office by appointment. Meeting all time limits and deadlines imposed by the law remains your responsibility until we have a written agreement.