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Social Security Disability Questions Answered

According to the Social Security Administration, more than 11 million Americans are receiving social security disability. Unfortunately, in many situations, those pursuing social security disability benefits may have difficulty obtaining them. This is incredibly frustrating when a person is trying to focus on their medical condition and cannot receive the benefits they require. SSDI is a program provided to those who have paid into social security through their job over several years. Whether you are in the process of applying for SSDI or have received a denial, you will have many questions that you are looking for the answers to:

What is the difference between jobs covered by social security and ones that are not?

When pursuing social security disability, one of the first places to start will be determining the difference between jobs covered under social security and those that are not. While a large percentage of the workforce has jobs covered by social security, a person may be ineligible in some situations. 

What is a substantial gainful activity?

To measure whether a person is eligible for social security disability benefits, the Social Security Administration uses a term called substantial gainful activity (SGA). Substantial gainful activity is a person’s ability to work and earn a living. If a person has an income of over a certain amount, they may not qualify for social security disability benefits. To receive social security disability, a person must be unable to work due to impairments and bring in an income less than required. 

What are work credits? 

Through a person’s time working, they will earn work credits. To receive social security disability benefits, an employee must earn at least 20 work credits. These credits are obtained through working and paying taxes into social security. Each year, a person can earn up to 4 work credits. However, it’s essential to be aware that the work credits needed increase as a person ages over time. While 20 credits are standard, this can vary based on a person’s age. For example, a person under the age of 24 only needs six credits, while someone at the age of 50 requires 28 work credits. 

What if I have not worked long enough to receive enough work credits?

If you do not have the correct number of work credits, you will not qualify for social security disability benefits. In some cases, your lack of work experience may be the result of your disability. However, if you have a disability and make under a certain amount of money each month, you may be able to apply for supplemental security income (SSI). 

At what point in the process is it recommended that a lawyer be contacted for help?

You can contact experienced social security disability lawyers, like from The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, at any point in the process. While a lawyer can help right from the start, in many cases, you may consider legal assistance if you are experiencing complications, or your claim has been denied. 

If you are in a position where you are unable to continue working and earn an income, you must receive the benefits you are entitled to. Speak with a lawyer for the guidance that you require. 


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