Basic Information About SSDI Benefits
For most people who have been approved to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, the monthly payment is based on their prior income as workers. Additional rules apply for blind people and for people disabled since childhood.
To verify that you understand how to apply for Social Security (SSD) benefits, how to document your application and how to predict whether you will be approved, work with a knowledgeable lawyer. At Carey & Stewart, our attorneys are ready to help.
Things To Know About SSD Benefits
When you work with our lawyers in pursuit of SSD benefits, you will also receive guidance to keep in mind over time, such as the following:
- If you have qualified for SSDI benefits because of your prior work experience, your monthly benefits will be calculated based on your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME) while working.
- SSD benefits are taxable for people receiving over a certain minimum annual income.
- Depending on your total income each month, SSD benefits may be reduced if you also receive workers’ compensation benefits.
- If you were self-employed, had seasonable employment or had other complex situations regarding your income, the way your income is reported can make a difference. Work with a lawyer to help ensure that your benefits will be as high as you qualify for.
- When you are approved for SSD benefits, your case will be categorized under one of these terms: Medical Improvement Expected (MIE) or Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE). If you fall under MIE, you can expect periodic, rather frequent reviews by Social Security to determine whether analysts at the agency believe you have improved and are employable again. If your case falls under MINE, you may also experience periodic reviews, but they will likely be infrequent.
- You should also be aware that Social Security agents may keep an eye on you either by observing your activities in public or by monitoring images of you in social media. If there is evidence to make them suspect that you are committing fraud by claiming to be disabled but continuing to stay active or even work without reporting it, your benefits could be cut off. Even worse, you could be investigated on suspicion of Social Security fraud. You might face a criminal conviction.
Assuming your case is approved and you continue to demonstrate eligibility anytime there is a disability review, your benefits may continue until you reach retirement age. At that time, your SSD benefits will end and your Social Security retirement benefits may begin.
Protect Your Ongoing Right To Receive SSD Benefits If You Qualify
Our attorneys have more than 100 combined years of legal experience. They are skilled at explaining SSD rules to nonlawyers and answering questions about SSD. Contact the law firm without hesitation. Call 888-710-4496 or email us to schedule a free consultation.