General Social Security Information

There may come a time in one’s life when they find themselves unable to work due to a chronic physical and/or mental health impairment. If this happens, a person can file for Social Security disability benefits, a federal program that provides a monthly payment and medical insurance for qualified individuals. To be found disabled under the Social Security regulations, a person must have a severe impairment that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months and that impairment must significantly impact their ability to function on a daily basis.

A person can file a claim for Social Security disability online or by going to their local office. The local office will forward the claim to a State Agency for review. If the State Agency finds you are not disabled, you have the right to appeal the denial by requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

There are two payment sources for Social Security disability benefits: (1) Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for individuals with little or no work history wherein you get a fixed monthly amount determined by the government and (2) Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for individuals with a work history wherein your monthly benefit amount is determined based on your work income over a certain period of time.

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FAQs

Can I get Social Security disability if something happens (i.e., break a leg) and I’m out of work for a couple of weeks?

No. You must have an ongoing condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months.

Can I get Social Security disability if I’m sick, but have never been to a doctor?

No. Social Security is a medical determination and thus, there must be medical evidence to support your claim of disability.

If I know that I’m not going to be able to work anymore, when should I file for disability?

You should file as soon as you know that you won’t be able to continue to work on a full-time basis. Some people may be eligible to collect disability from work and thus, wait until those benefits stop to file a Social Security claim. That is not necessary – you can file for Social Security disability benefits while collecting other benefits.

How long does it take from when I file a claim to actually get a hearing?

Unfortunately, it’s a long process. It can take anywhere from 12-16 months from the time that you file the initial claim until you get a hearing. It can take another 3-5 months until you receive a decision from the judge.

Can children receive SSI disability benefits?

Yes. An adult can apply for SSI disability benefits on behalf of a child. Whether or not a child will be found disabled depends on the medical evidence.

After I have been granted disability benefits, will the Social Security Administration review my case to determine if I continue to be eligible for benefits?

Yes. The Social Security Administration does conduct continuing disability reviews.

If my doctor says that I can’t work, is the Social Security Administration and/or the judge who hears my case required to accept that opinion and grant me benefits?

No. The Social Security Administration and/or the judge will review all the medical evidence and make its own determination regarding your ability to work.

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General Social Security Information

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