Are You Making the Most of the Social Security Disability Program?
It is unfortunate to be out of work due to a medical condition, but it is even more tragic if you are not taking full advantage of the benefits offered by the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) system. The federal government provides monetary support to assist you through these difficult times, so you do yourself a disservice if you do not act to get the benefits you deserve. A Maryland SSDI lawyer can assist you with the filing process, but some tips on how to make the most of your disability benefits should also be useful.
- Know Your Benefits: Your disability benefit amount is based upon your earnings in the period before you became unable to work. Payments range depending on your income, and there is a cap that is adjusted regularly to account for inflation.
- Disability and Self-Employment: You must deduct your own Social Security taxes when you file your federal income taxes if you are self-employed. Failure to do so means you are not paying into the SSDI system and you cannot obtain benefits if you become disabled.
- File Your Claim Right Away: A “wait and see” approach does not serve your interests when you seek benefits under SSDI. The first day you cannot work, you should get your paperwork together to file a claim.
- Vocational Assistance: The Social Security Administration (SSA) has developed programs that can help you work, as long as you are otherwise medically able. Vocational rehabilitation, job training, and other initiatives are available, so take advantage where appropriate.
- Substantial Gainful Activity: You may be able to work even while receiving SSDI, but there are limitations based upon your substantial gainful activity. A part-time job may help you make ends meet, so long as you do not make more than the amount designated by the SSA.
- Work with an SSDI Lawyer: Filing a claim and getting approval can be complicated, and most claims are denied by the SSA, at least initially. You have a better chance of a smooth process by retaining an experienced attorney to assist. If you do not have a lawyer’s help, you could leave money on the table – funds that you may really need when you cannot work.
Contact a Skilled Disability Attorney to Set Up a Consultation on SSDI
Dealing with a disability has obvious physical implications, but it also affects you mentally and emotionally. On top of your difficult circumstances, being unable to work puts you in a serious financial situation. You can alleviate some of the burden and stress by getting the SSDI benefits to which you are entitled by law, but you face an uphill battle when trying to navigate the filing process on your own. Make the most of your disability benefits by retaining a knowledgeable disability lawyer to assist. For more information on taking full advantage of the SSDI program, please contact Steinhardt, Siskind and Lieberman, LLC. We are happy to schedule a free consultation at our offices in Glen Burnie, Owings Mills, Ellicott City, or Annapolis, MD.
