Social Security disability insurance payments are available to previously-employed persons who cannot work because of a medical condition that is expected to last more than a year or anticipated to result in death. The payment amount is calculated on past earnings and other factors with formulas developed by the Social Security Administration.
Process for Receiving Social Security Disability
There are two tests for Social Security disability: the “recent work” test and the “duration of work” test. Social Security disability bases the recent work on the calendar quarter and age. After the age of 31, a claimant must work five of the ten years ending with the quarter in which a disability began. The Social Security Administration calculates duration of work on a graduating scale, requiring 1.5 years of work for a disability before age 28, and 9.5 years of work for a disability at age 60.
Standard Definition of Disability Under Social Security
There is no partial disability under Social Security, and the requirements for their definition of “disabled” are stringent. There is no percentage like there is for veteran's benefits; a claimant is simply approved or denied disability payments. Although the claimant is limited to the approved amount of disability payments, there may be other sources of income available, including additional benefits from Social Security.
Look for Other Benefits Available
Receive Medicare benefits. After two years of Social Security disability payments, a claimant is entitled to Medicare. Medicare is significant assistance to the disabled.
A spouse is entitled to Social Security benefits. A spouse who is 62 years old may qualify for Social Security benefits as a result of a claimant’s disability and based on the disability claimant’s work record. Minor children may also receive benefits.
If a claim is a result of a work-related accident and the claimant no longer receives Worker’s Compensation, notify the Social Security Administration. A claimant is not entitled to get more than 80 percent of average current earnings as defined before disability. There is a cap on the total amount of money a family can receive. Once the other public benefits for disability cease, the Social Security office may upgrade disability benefits.
Work While Disabled
Social Security rules permit nine months of work on a trial basis, if the claimant continues to be disabled and notifies Social Security of employment. There is no requirement that the nine months be consecutive. An additional 36 months of employment is permitted with no penalty if the income is less than $1,000 a month. Social Security deducts work expenses created by the disability from the total income, so a claimant may qualify for full benefits and still earn more than $1,000 a month.
There are ways to increase income while disabled and still be within the Social Security guidelines. Medicare is available after two years on disability, and other family members may qualify for benefits. With internet and telephone access, there are work-at-home jobs for disabled persons. Social Security disability encourages claimants to try to work by permitting a trial work period without risk of loss of benefits.
Linda Richard - Writer, proofreader, editor, antiques appraiser specializing in pottery and glass. Author of Retirement Living Guide series.
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