Social Security Disability And Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Social Security Disability Insurance will pay monthly benefits to you if you are a qualified worker who became disabled before reaching retirement age and your medical doctors affirm that you aren’t able to work anymore. To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must have worked a certain number of years in jobs that deducted Social Security taxes (FICA) from your paycheck. The amount of time that must be worked is calculated with “work credits,” with up to four work credits possible per year. If your Social Security Disability Insurance application has been denied, time is of the essence.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that allows you to apply for benefits on a strictly need-based basis if you are disabled but you do not have the years of working and paying FICA taxes that would allow you to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance. The program is funded by general fund taxes (not from the Social Security trust fund), and eligibility is determined according to income and assets. SSI is called a “means-tested program,” which means that only your financial need is considered, not work history. In order to qualify for SSI benefits, you must have medical proof that you are unable to work.

If you are medically disabled and unable to work and your SSDI or SSI application has been denied, contact our firm. We can help you understand your rights and walk you through the process of appealing your claim. Call 205-606-6788 or send us an email to reach our Winfield office. Se habla español.