Permanent Disability: Social Security Benefits Available

A permanent disability causes both physical discomfort and mental anguish. Moreover, such a disability can lead to the loss of one’s job and, therefore, a loss of income. Additionally, there might be an increase in expenses because of the disability. In such as situation, the disabled person tries to depend on the benefits they are eligible for to make ends meet. One avenue of benefits is the Social Security scheme.

No Permanent Benefits

When applying for Social Security benefits because you are permanently disabled, keep in mind the fact that the benefits are not permanent. The Social Security Administration will periodically review your health status to ensure that the disability persists. Such reviews are normally conducted after 1, 3, and 7 years after the award of the benefits. The review dates are fixed based on the nature of the disability.

Gainful Employment

You are eligible for Social Security benefits even if you continue to work after acquiring the disability. However, your current income should be less than the minimum prescribed by the Social Security Administration. Additionally, your present wages should be lower than the wages you were earning earlier.

Federal Benefits

Unlike other benefits and insurance schemes, Social Security is a federally administered program. So, you are eligible for Social Security benefits wherever you live within the United States. The only caveat is that you should be able to prove severe mental or physical impairment that will last for at least a year to qualify for Social Security benefits.

Provide Proof

You need to provide proof of your disability. The best proof is a doctor’s certificate which states that you are under their continuing care and are permanently disabled. Photographs and statements of witnesses also help. In the event that your disability was caused because of an accident, furnish police records of the compliant lodged at that time.

Contact a Lawyer

As proving a permanent disability is a complex and challenging issue, it is wise to contact a lawyer and ask them to represent you. Once you sign an agreement with the lawyer, they will represent you before the Social Security Administration and complete all the legal formalities on your behalf. They will help you to fill all the forms. This is especially advisable as most claimants of Social Security disability benefits are likely to be attempting this for the first time. A lawyer will know all the requirements and will help you to fulfill them. This will ensure that your claim for benefits is successful.