Types of Social Security Disability Benefits

Attorney for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income in Milwaukee, WI

If you are unable to work because of a physical or mental disability, it can be next to impossible to support yourself on your own. Fortunately, the federal government provides assistance to many people with disabilities through Social Security Administration programs, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, the process of applying for benefits is often long and complicated, and if you are unsure of how to go about it on your own, the services of an attorney can be greatly beneficial.

Attorney Jonathan Pearson has dedicated his career to helping people secure Social Security disability benefits. He will handle your case with the personal attention you deserve from beginning to end, helping you understand the process and the different types of benefits, complete your application, and prove your eligibility. We only charge a fee if we successfully obtain benefits for you, so you do not need to worry about payment during a time of financial hardship.

What Are the Different Types of Social Security Disability Benefits?

In order to qualify for either Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a disability that prevents you from sustaining substantial gainful employment (SGA) for at least 12 months. In 2022, this means that you are unable to earn a monthly income of at least $1,350, or a monthly income of $2,260 if you are blind. However, aside from the disability determination, the eligibility criteria for these two types of benefits differ substantially.

Understanding Social Security Disability Insurance

SSDI benefits are available to people under age 65 who have been able to work and contribute to Social Security in the past. In order to qualify, you usually need to have earned at least 20 credits in the 10 years before the onset of your disability. It is possible to earn up to four credits each year, so this means you usually need to have worked a cumulative total of at least five years within this time period. However fewer credits are needed if you were disabled before the age of 31, and more are needed if you were disabled after the age of 42.

If you are approved for SSDI benefits, you will receive monthly payments according to an average indexed monthly earnings (AIME) calculation based on your income during your working years. In recent years, the Social Security Administration reports that the average monthly benefit is between $1,200 and $1,300. Additional benefits are available for your spouse and children in some cases, with children usually qualifying for benefits if they are minors or are disabled themselves. If you receive SSDI benefits for at least 24 months, you will then be eligible for Medicare to assist with the costs of hospital and doctor care.

Supplemental Security Income Eligibility

SSI benefits, on the other hand, are available to those in need even if they have not accumulated credits from their previous employment. However, in order to qualify, your income and financial resources must be below an amount established by the Social Security Administration. The monthly SSI amount for 2021 is $794, or $1,191 for a married couple. Additionally, your qualifying assets, including bank accounts, investments, and businesses, must be valued below $2,000 as an individual or $3,000 as a married couple.

The monthly benefit payment is often lower for SSI than for SSDI, with a maximum amount equal to the income limit for eligibility. However, if you are approved for SSI benefits, you usually qualify for other benefits that provide financial assistance, including Medicaid, public housing, and food stamps. Wisconsin also offers additional supplements for some people who receive SSI benefits, including a Caretaker Supplement for qualifying parents and an Exceptional Expense Supplement.

Contact a Waukesha County SSDI and SSI Benefits Attorney

Together, we will figure out which type of Social Security benefits you may be eligible for and take the necessary steps to apply. For a free consultation, contact us today at 414-240-4801. We help clients throughout Milwaukee County, Waukesha County, and the surrounding areas, including Milwaukee, South Milwaukee, West Allis, Wauwatosa, Oak Creek, and Greenfield.