With Regards To Social Security Disability: What You Need To Be Aware Of Prior To Filing For Disability Benefits

Most people think of retirement living when they hear Social Security, nevertheless Social Security offers benefits to people who are incapacitated as well.

The set of requirements that must be met for Social Security disability benefits is pretty long, and many people don't meet those requirements. The truth is, the Social Security Administration says over 60% of applicants are usually denied each year as they simply don't meet the strict description of disability.

Prior to filing for disability - tests you need to meet to determine if you are eligible for benefits:

First, you must be fully insured person, which means you have earned 40 credits over 10 years in covered employment. In 2011, you have to earn at least $1,120 to obtain one credit and $4,480 to earn four points (you can only get four credits in a year). If you have less than 10 years of work history, there is an alternative test based on your age to determine whether you meet the duration of work test.

The second test is the latest work test, which fundamentally says that you must have attained at least 20 credits over the past five out of ten years that winds up with the calendar quarter you became disabled. In general, you must have recent work history in order to qualify for handicap benefits. Again, alternative tests apply for people who become handicapped before age 31, simply because they haven't had time to establish the work history that some older workers have.

Social Security has a very strict definition of disability, be careful to see you qualify before submitting your Social Security disability application. It's vital that you note that Social Security does not pay benefits based upon partial disabilities, you have to be totally and permanently disabled to receive benefits. As per Social Security a person is disabled when she or he is unable to work on account of a medical condition or condition that lasted or can be expected to last for at least 12 months (continuously), or that will result in the person's death. Also, the person will not be able to engage in any "substantial gainful activity".

If you satisfy the strict definition of handicap above, then you should apply for Social Security benefits as soon as possible. First, the time to process your application is very lengthy; second, there is a mandatory five-month waiting around period, so you will not receive benefits right away when filing for disability.

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