Everything You Need to Know About Social Security Disability

An elevator or escalator accident could result in a serious injury. If you or a loved one faces an injury that means they need to retire early, they may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance. Continue reading to learn what this type of insurance is, if you are eligible, and about the application process.

What Is It?

If a person becomes disabled before they are able to retire, then they could get Social Security Disability Insurance. This is also known as “SSD,” “SSDI,” and “workers’ disability.” This type of disability insurance is meant to supplement income since the person who sustained injuries cannot work. Usually, Social Security Disability applies to people with serious, life-altering injuries such as paralysis or traumatic brain injury.

Are You Eligible?

Here is a list of some of the things that would make you eligible for Social Security Disability:

• Your medical condition must meet the SSA’s definition of disability.
• It must be a long term injury or last at least one year.
• You need to have a five month waiting period.
• It must be a “total disability,” which means that you cannot perform “substantial gainful activity” for at least one year. 
• You need to have work credits in order to qualify. The number of work credits depend on how long you have been working and your age at the time you were disabled.
• It must be severe or interfere with basic work-related activities.
• You need a certain number of years in a job where you paid Social Security taxes.

How Do I Apply?

You can apply and submit your information for Social Security Disability online. You will need things like your social security number, medical records, information on any medications you are taking, information about your work, and more. If you need help, a family member can assist with the application. Alternatively, you can contact our office and we can assist.

My Application Was Denied, Can I Reapply?

Yes, if your application was denied you can appeal it within 60 days. You will need to submit a request for reconsideration the first time you are denied. If you are denied again then you can request a hearing. Plenty of applications get denied in the initial process and eventually are granted Social Security Disability. 

Getting Help

If you have suffered from an elevator or escalator injury that interferes with your ability to work, you may qualify for Social Security Disability. To find out more about this and whether you qualify, contact our office. You can call us at (203) 208-3445 for more information.