Types of Social Security Disability Benefits in Ohio

The Federal Social Security Administration offers two basic types of disability benefits. The type that most people receive is Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI. SSDI provides benefits to U.S. citizens whose physical or mental health leaves them unable to work. Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is awarded based on financial need.

Partnering with an experienced Columbus social security disability attorney improves an applicant’s chances of receiving Social Security benefits. This is because each application requires extensive medical and financial documentation and because appealing initial denials is often necessary. Deadlines for filing appeals are tight, and new information usually must be collected, organized, and submitted quickly. Working with a caring and knowledgeable legal ally makes navigating the Social Security disability claims process easier.

Four Essential SSDI Facts

1. Eligibility for an Adult requires contributions to Social Security, usually via payroll deductions marked as F.I.C.A. State government workers are not eligible for SSDI because they do not participate in Social Security. Other retirement systems cover such individuals.

2. An SSDI beneficiary must also have a medically documented condition that prevents him or her from performing any work. The condition must have persisted for at least 12 months or be likely to prove fatal within a matter of months or years.

3. SSDI benefits are based on the beneficiaries’ previous lifetime earnings that were subject to Social Security taxes. When a parent or guardian applies for SSDI on behalf of their disabled child, the benefit will be based on the adult’s earnings.

4. Beneficiaries are sometimes required to reestablish eligibility by submitting new information from physicians and occupational specialists.

Three Essential SSI Facts

1. Supplemental Security Income is generally available only to people who have not worked, or not worked enough, to pay sufficient Social Security taxes. Payments from SSI are intended to save disabled adults and families who care for disabled children from bankruptcy and homelessness.

2. During 2018, monthly SSI benefits will be capped at $750 for a single adult and $1,125 for a couple.

3. Workers’ compensation, pension payments, and retirement account distributions all affect SSI payments. If a beneficiary is able to return to work part-time, the additional income will also affect SSI benefits.

A Columbus Social Security disability lawyer at the Calig Law Firm can stear you in right direction regarding SSDI and SSI applications. Let us know if we help you or a family member by scheduling a consultation. Call us at (614) 252-2300 or reach out to us online by filling out this contact form. What Is the Minimum Amount of Social Security Disability Benefits?