Introduction to Disability Benefits

By: Lillian Stow

When it comes to applying for disability benefits, it is important for you to know that there are certain rights and responsibilities that you are entitled to when receiving any benefits from the Social Security Administration. The more that you know and understand about your optiona, the better prepared you will be for the application process. If you are also receiving Supplemental Security Income or SSI payments then the situation may be a little different compared to if you are only receiving Social Security Disability Income or SSDI benefits.

When do Payments Begin?

Under the laws pertaining to SSDI Benefits, the payments are not going to begin until the point where you have been disabled for a period of at least five complete months. Payments will typically begin at the point where you have reached the sixth month of your disability.

When you have been told by Social Security that you are going to be receiving payments for a disability benefit, the notice is going to explain how much the disability benefit is going to be for. This notice should also let you know when the payments are going to begin. If you have family members that are eligible to receive benefits based on the work that you have done, then they are going to receive separate notices.

How Long Will Payments Continue?

Generally speaking, disability benefits are going to continue, assuming that your medical condition hasn't improved and assuming that you are incapable of working. Your benefits are not necessarily going to continue on an indefinite basis, however. Because of recent advances in medical science as well as techniques for rehabilitation, many people that are suffering from disabilities can recover even from serious illnesses and accidents.

Your case is going to be reviewed throughout time in order to make sure that you are still suffering from your disability. You will be responsible for letting the SSA know whether or not your medical condition has seen improvement and if there has been any change in your personal ability to make a living, or if you end up returning to work. There are a number of other changes that you have to notify the SSA of, so make sure you understand these when it comes to your benefits.

What happens if you disagree with a decision made by the SSA?

If you should happen to have any questions regarding your payment allotment or any information that you receive, contact the SSA for more information. Should you happen to disagree with a decision made by the SSA, then you do have the right to file an appeal for the decision. Your request has to be made in writing and it has to be delivered to an SSA office within a period of 60 days following the date of the denial. If you are still not satisfied with the decision, it may be wise for you to consult with a social security disability advocate or attorney that can help you with the appeals process.

Freedom Disability provides education and representation services to individuals interested in applying for Social Security Disability benefits in the United States. For additional information please visit Freedom Disability.

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