Fortunately, when a resident of Roanoke becomes disabled and can no longer earn a living, some relief is available from a federal insurance program that is supported by all U.S. workers through automatic payroll deductions. This program is known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
SSDI was established in 1956 as a revision to the Social Security Act, and this put the Social Security Administration (SSA) in charge of overseeing the program. It is often confused with other SSA programs, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is an income-based benefit. The difference between SSDI and other social programs is that SSDI is an insurance policy for workers with long-term disabilities and not a government handout.
Workers pay the premiums on the policy through their payroll taxes and receive benefits if they meet the work requirements. The first work requirement is to have the minimum number of work credits for your age at the rate of one credit earned for each quarter of employment. The second work requirement ensures that you have worked recently, and this timetable is also determined by age.
In addition, it is important to understand that SSDI is only for those suffering from severe psychological or physical impairments that are expected to result in death or last a minimum of one year.
The amount of the monthly benefit qualified workers receive from SSDI is calculated as a percentage of the average annual earnings over your lifetime, and the rate ranges from 28 percent to 60 percent of this average.
Social Security Disability in Roanoke, TX
SSDI has helped millions of people live decent lives, keeping them from falling through the financial cracks in society, but like most government programs, it has a few downfalls. The biggest of these disadvantages is the wait time. If you go into the nearest SSA office in Denton and complete an application, you will not receive a reply until about three months later, and for two-thirds of applicants, the initial outcome is a denial.
You can increase your chances of being accepted upon the initial review by making sure your application is completed accurately, and you will have to submit sufficient supporting documentation as evidence of your disability. Because this process is so complex and is happening at a stressful time in your life, it can become more than you can handle alone.
Getting Help From an Attorney
The most effective and efficient means of navigating the waters of the SSDI program is to hire a reliable disability representative from the very beginning. We will help you complete your application, and talk to your doctors and ensure your medical records are prepared and submitted properly. It is also a great relief to have counsel should your application be denied, forcing you into the appeals process.
Most SSDI applicants who appeal their denials will be scheduled for a hearing with an administrative law judge, and having someone experienced in disability law at your side will reduce your anxiety and improve your confidence. If you would like further information on how to begin your SSDI application or how to handle an appeal, contact the team at Chermol & Fishman, LLC today.
To discuss SSD and SSI claims or appeals, please call 1-888-774-7243 or contact our attorneys using the form below.
The initial consultation is free, and we never charge a fee until we win your case.
