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According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), one out of every four young adults in America will become disabled by the age of 67. If you become disabled and are unable to work, Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) can provide you with an income. Below is a brief overview of SSDI and how the program works.

Who Qualifies for Social Security Disability?

Per the Federal Insurance Contributions Act, all employed individuals contribute to the Social Security disability program via tax collection. If you become disabled, you can apply for payments from this program.

However, you must meet specific criteria before you qualify: First, you must have paid into SSDI through taxes for a specific amount of time—typically 5 to 10 years—before becoming disabled. In addition, your disability must meet the SSA’s standard, which requires all of the following circumstances to be true in order for you to qualify: 

  • You are unable to do the work you did before you became disabled.
  • You are unable to do any other work, as determined by the SSA.
  • Your disability has lasted or will last for at least one year, or will result in your death.

How Do Social Security Disability Payments Work?

Connecticut social security disabilityIf your request for SSDI is approved, the amount you receive will depend on your age and your previous income. There is a 5-month waiting period for payments if you’re approved immediately but, unless your disability is life-threatening, it typically takes about 6 to 12 months to receive your first payment. When you are approved, you will receive back pay starting from six months after you became disabled.

From that point on, you will receive a Social Security disability payment each month for as long as your disability prevents you from working. You’ll be required to pay taxes on your SSDI if your household income is over a certain amount, and the SSA will perform reviews every 1 to 3 years to determine if your disability has improved.
 

If you have questions about Social Security disability, the attorneys at D'Agosto & Howe LLC in Shelton, CT, are ready to help you secure the benefits you’re entitled to. With more than 40 years of combined legal expertise, this firm is highly experienced in SSDI and workers' compensation cases, as well as personal injury law, criminal defense, real estate law, and more. Visit their website to learn more or call (203) 712-0210 to set up a complimentary consultation.

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