FAQs – Social Security
Q. Are Children Eligible for Social Security?
A. Yes, children may be eligible for various Social Security programs based on specific criteria. While many are familiar with “regular” Social Security, which is based on taxes paid while working, there are other programs designed to assist qualified children who meet different requirements, such as financial need, having a disabled or deceased parent, and…
Read MoreQ. Can I Draw Workers’ Compensation Weekly Checks and Social Security Checks at the Same Time?
A. Yes, it is possible to receive both Social Security and Workers’ Compensation benefits, but your Social Security check will be reduced or offset by the amount of your Workers’ Compensation check. According to Social Security law, disability checks are offset when your combined income reaches 80% or more of your pre-injury earnings. It is…
Read MoreQ. Can I Draw Social Security if I Have Never Worked Full Time?
A. Yes, if you are unable to work at any job for a continuous period of twelve (12) months or more, and you also have financial need, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a unique program offered by the Social Security Administration specifically designed to provide benefits to individuals who have…
Read MoreQ. What is the Difference Between Social Security and Supplemental Security Income?
A. Both Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are programs administered by the Social Security Administration. Both SSD and SSI have a common fundamental requirement for coverage: you must be unable to work at any job for a continuous period of twelve (12) months or longer. However, there are distinct differences between…
Read MoreQ. How Do I Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?
A. You become eligible for Social Security disability benefits IF you experience mental and/or physical problems of such severity that they prevent you from working for a continuous period of twelve (12) months or more. It’s important to note that the disability should hinder your ability to work in any competitive job within the national…
Read MoreQ. Should I Apply for Social Security When I Am Receiving Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
A. Yes, in general, Social Security law requires that you be disabled for a continuous period of twelve (12) months or more to be eligible for benefits. If you miss more than one (1) week of work due to your disability, you may become eligible for Workers’ Compensation weekly checks. If you anticipate that your…
Read MoreQ. What Happens if I Try to Work When I am Receiving Social Security Benefits?
A. According to Social Security law, it is mandatory to report any income or benefits you receive while you are receiving disability checks. It’s important to note that you cannot work and be considered disabled simultaneously. However, the law allows you to make some work attempts without jeopardizing your eligibility for disability benefits. Failing to…
Read MoreQ. How Long Will it Take to Start Receiving Social Security Disability Payments?
The time it takes to receive your Social Security Disability payments depends on whether your initial application is approved or denied. Once you file your initial application, it typically takes three (3) to five (5) months for the Disability Determination Services to make a decision on your claim. In some cases, more information may be…
Read MoreQ. If I Win My Social Security Disability Case, How Much “Back Pay” Will I Receive?
A. The exact amount of “back pay” you receive is determined by the Social Security program you are eligible for. The two (2) main Social Security programs are Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income. For Social Security Disability, benefits are based on the taxes you paid in, and can not be paid for more…
Read MoreQ. How Much Will I Receive in Social Security Disability Benefits Every Month?
A. The amount of monthly Social Security benefit checks you receive will depend on what type of program you are entitled to. If you are a Supplemental Security Income program recipient, the amount will be based on the financial need you have. If you are a Social Security Disability program recipient, the amount will be…
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