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The advantages to applying for SSDI benefits

On Behalf of | Nov 22, 2018 | Social Security Disability, Social Security Disability

Millions of people each year receive insurance coverage through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. While some people have long careers and can choose when to retire, many people are forced out of work prematurely due to a severe illness and injury. Workers who are no longer able to work due to a medical condition have the option of filing for disability benefits through SSDI.

Many people in Georgia may wonder if it is worth the hassle to apply for disability benefits. If you suffer an injury or illness, you may need a couple of years of medical treatment and rehabilitation to become healthy enough to work again. In the meantime, disability benefits can provide income to keep your family afloat during those difficult financial times. On average in 2019, a disabled worker can receive $14,800 per year in benefits, and $25,560 per year if he or she has a family.

In addition to income, disability benefits can provide health care coverage with Medicare. If your application for SSDI benefits is approved, you may be eligible for Medicare in two years from the date you start receiving your cash benefits. Applying for benefits can also positively impact your retirement benefits. Generally, any years you don’t earn income count against you when it comes to your retirement benefits. However, if you are approved for SSDI benefits, the years you didn’t earn income will not be factored in, and therefore, your retirement benefits could increase.

If you have a long-term disability (LTD) insurance plan, you may receive additional benefits through SSDI. For instance, you can receive financial support immediately following your disability with your LTD plan and use SSDI as another source of income support. Disabled people with LTD and SSDI benefits may also pay lower LTD premiums.

Finally, SSDI benefits can help you get back on your feet and return to work. SSDI allows benefit recipients to go back to work on trial basis (nine months over five years) while still receiving SSDI benefits. You may also continue to receive SSDI benefits for three years after the trial period if you do not earn enough to meet the criteria.

Applying for SSDI benefits can be very advantageous for you and your family following a disability. However, it is important that one’s application contains all the information and details needed for the Social Security Administration to approve it. For this reason, some people seeking SSDI choose to consult with an attorney.

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