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Frequently Asked Questions about Social Security Disability

Navigating the social security disability world can be tricky. There are so many questions that need to be answered, but not everyone has the time to sit down on the phone with the Social Security Administration (SSA) or an attorney. That's why the Michles & Booth team is here to answer some of the most frequently asked questions we get about social security disability.

1. What are social security disability benefits?

Social security disability benefits are payments made to individuals who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. These benefits are funded by the SSA and are based on the individual's work history and earnings.

2. How do social security disability benefits work?

Individuals who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability can apply for social security disability benefits. If approved, they will receive payments each month from the Social Security Administration. The amount of the payment will depend on the individual's work history and earnings.

3. How do I qualify for social security disability benefits?

To qualify for these benefits, you must have worked in jobs covered by social security, including having a medical condition that meets social security's definition of disability.

4. How much will I receive in social security disability benefits?

The amount you receive in social security disability benefits will depend on your work history and earnings. However, the average monthly benefit is $1,171.

5. What happens if my social security disability benefits stop?

If your social security disability benefits stop, you may be able to reapply for them. However, you will need to provide updated information about your medical condition and work history.

6. When can I expect to receive social security disability benefits?

Your social security disability benefits will begin the sixth full month after the date your disability began. However, this is only if they accept your application. Sometimes people can miss forms or fill out their information correctly which will result in a declined application. If you are unsure if you are filling out your claim correctly, a social security disability lawyer can assist you.

7. Can I still work while receiving social security benefits?

Yes, you can still work while receiving social security disability benefits. However, there are limits to how much money you can earn. If you earn more than the social security earnings limit, your benefits will be reduced.

8. What is the social security earnings limit?

The social security earnings limit is the amount of money you can earn while still receiving social security disability benefits. If you are under retirement age, your annual earnings limit is $19,560. However, if you are at full retirement status, your annual earnings limit is $51,960.

9. How will my social security benefits be reduced if I earn more than the social security earnings limit?

If you earn more than the social security earnings limit, your social security disability benefits will be reduced by $1 for every $2 you earn over the limit. For example, if you earn $1,500 per month, your social security disability benefits will be reduced by $140 per month ($1,500 - $1,220 = $280; $280 / 2 = $140).

10. How often do I need to reapply for social security benefits?

You will need to reapply for social security disability benefits every 12 months. Nonetheless, you may be able to receive benefits for a longer period of time if your medical condition is expected to improve. If your medical condition does not improve, you will need to provide updated information about your condition and work history in order to continue receiving benefits.

For example, if you are disabled and receiving social security disability benefits, you will need to reapply for those benefits every few years. The Social Security Administration will send you a notice in the mail telling you when it is time to reapply.

If you are retired and receiving social security retirement benefits, you do not need to reapply for those benefits. However, you should notify the Social Security Administration if there are any changes in your circumstances that might affect your benefits, such as changes in your address, phone number, or marital status.

A social security disability lawyer can assist you in reapplying for social security disability benefits. They can also help you ensure that you are providing the necessary information about your medical condition and work history.

11. Are there any other programs I may be eligible for if I am receiving social security disability benefits?

Yes, you may also be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. SSI is a needs-based program, so you may receive payments even if you have not worked in the past. To learn more about SSI, please visit our website or contact us.

12. Who can I contact social security to ask questions about my social security disability benefits?

You can contact social security by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting your local social security office. You can find your local social security office here. If you are still in need of further assistance, you can also reach out to the Michles & Booth team.

Social Security Disability Lawyers

We hope this article has been helpful in answering some of your questions about social security disability benefits. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact our Social Security Disability Lawyers at (800) 848-6168 or through our website.

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