Social Security Disability Benefits
What Can I Do To Help My Claim for Social Security Benefits?
You can improve your chances of recovery if you are persistent. Do not give up the first time your claim is denied. Statistically, claimants who employ an attorney to represent them are much more likely to win than those who go without representation. This is because lawyers know what limitations need to be established to help you qualify and develop the evidence to prove they are present.
If I am approved for Social Security disability benefits, how much will I get?
For disability insurance benefits, it all depends upon how much you have worked and what you earned in the past.
If you call 1-800-772-1213, the Social Security Administration can tell you your Primary Insured Amount (PIA), which is normally the monthly check amount.
If you have children under the age of 18, also ask for the Family Maximum (FMAX), to find out the total benefits for your family.
Under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, benefits cannot exceed a certain amount; back time, or money awarded retroactively, is often reduced by one-third (1/3) if you are dependent on others to pay for your food and shelter.
How far back will they pay benefits if I am found disabled?
For Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits and for Disabled Widow’s and Widower’s Benefits, the benefits cannot begin until five months have passed after you become disabled.
In addition, benefits cannot be paid more than one year prior to the date of the claim.
For a Disabled Adult Child, there is no five-month waiting period before benefits begin, but benefits cannot be paid more than six months prior to the date of the claim.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits cannot be paid prior to the start of the month following the date the disability application is filed.
By: Social Security Attorney Pete Strom
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