Understanding Eligibility And Choices For Long-Term SSDI Benefits

Do you have a  long-term disability and are unsure about your financial future? Fortunately,  Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can help you continue paying your bills. This guide will give you everything you need to know about long-term SSDI benefits, how to qualify, and what you can receive if you’re eligible.

What Are Long-Term SSDI Benefits?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides long-term SSDI benefits to anyone who can’t work for a year or longer due to a disability. Unlike short-term disability benefits, generally offered by private insurance to cover temporary situations, long-term SSDI benefits are administered by the SSA and used for more serious medical conditions. The requirements are also more strict compared to short-term benefits. However, once you qualify, the SSA will provide you with a stable income for as long as needed.

How To Qualify For Long-Term SSDI Benefits

To qualify for long-term benefits, you must meet specific requirements set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). First and foremost, you must have accumulated a certain number of work credits based on your age and work history. You also need to prove your medical condition meets the SSA’s definition of disability. This means showing evidence that your disability is a terminal illness or at least severe enough to stop you from working for a year or longer.

Ensuring your application is detailed and has relevant information is crucial to getting benefits and avoiding delays. The application process includes:

• Gathering documents such as medical records, employment history, and other relevant information
• Submitting your application online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office
• Waiting for a decision from the SSA, which can take several months

What Options Are Available For Long-Term SSDI?

Several options are available once you qualify for long-term benefits based on your circumstances. These include:

• Family Benefits: Certain family members, such as spouses or dependent children, may also be eligible for benefits based on your work record.
• Medicare Coverage: The SSA will automatically enroll you in Medicare after receiving SSDI benefits for two years.
• Work Incentives: The SSA offers programs like Ticket to Work, which let you find work while still receiving benefits.

Managing Your Long-Term SSDI Benefits

Qualifying for long-term benefits won’t guarantee them for life. It’s crucial that you manage your SSDI benefits effectively and keep up with any policy changes to avoid potential issues. For example, the SSA requires you to report any updates in your income, medical condition, or personal situation within 10 days. If you don’t, it may revoke your benefits. Providing these details and checking in before the deadline reduces any suspicion or potential interruption to your benefits.

Start Your Disability Claim Today

Filing for long-term SSDI benefits and maintaining them can be a challenge.  If you need help, our team of dedicated New York social security disability lawyers is here to guide you through the process. We understand your challenges and are committed to helping you secure the benefits you’re entitled to. If you have any questions about starting your claim, please contact us online or at 855-208-7852 for a free case review today.