Many people rely on Social Security Disability benefits to make ends meet and to maintain a certain quality of life. If you have become disabled, you may find yourself in a situation where you would like to apply for Social Security Disability benefits. However, there are several things you should know that may impact your ability to qualify. Factors that may affect your ability to qualify for disability benefits include but are not limited to:

  • Starting a new job that pays more than you are allowed to earn
  • Retirement, including early retirement
  • Collecting other payments such as worker’s compensation or temporary state disability
  • Improvement of your disability to the degree that you are deemed reasonably able to resume work again

What If I’m Denied Social Security Disability Benefits?

While getting denied for much-needed benefits can feel like a major blow to your life, there is an appeals process that an SSD lawyer can help you with. The appeal process can give you a second chance at getting the benefits you deserve. Many times, claims are denied because of small oversights and errors. We can help you avoid those errors and make the most out of your application and appeal.

Can I Collect Retirement Benefits and Social Security Disability Benefits at the Same Time?

Generally, the answer to this question is “no,” with certain exceptions. One of these exceptions is early retirement. Because early retirement often means collecting a reduced retirement benefit, you may end up collecting both retirement benefits and Social Security disability benefits, but only to the point that you reach full benefit status as dictated by your reported earnings before your disability. The maximum amount you are typically allowed to collect when combining these sources of income is 80% of your average earnings prior to becoming disabled.

Should I Speak With a Personal Injury About Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Because the rules surrounding Social Security disability requirements can vary from year to year, and because of the relatively high stakes involved when dealing with what can often be your primary or only source of income, it’s always wise to reach out to a personal injury attorney familiar with Social Security disability to ensure your application process or any subsequent appeals process goes smoothly. The last thing you want is to have your application be denied because of an oversight on your part. Let us help you confidently move forward towards filing for Social Security Disability benefits and get the help you truly deserve.

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