Qualifying for SSD Benefits
As an attorney who specializes in Social Security disability claims in San Diego and Temecula, I am often questioned about who qualifies for Social Security disability benefits. There are many factors, including, but not limited to the following.
Do I Qualify for SSI Benefits?
To qualify for disability benefits from Social Security, you must have worked in jobs covered by the Social Security act, and you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability.
Social Security will pay monthly cash benefits to people who are unable to work for one year or more because of a disability.
Benefits usually continue until you are able to return to work on a regular basis.
If you are receiving Social Security disability benefits when you reach your full retirement age, your disability benefits will automatically convert into retirement benefits, but the amount Social Security will pay you will remain the same.
How Many Work Credits do I Need?
You must have worked long enough, and recently enough, under the Social Security act to qualify for disability benefits.
Social Security work credits are based on your total yearly wages or self-employment income. You can earn up to four credits each year.
The amount needed for a credit changes from year to year. In 2007, for example, one credit was earned for each $1000 of wages or self-employment income. When you’ve earned $4000, you’ve earned your 4 credits for the year.
The number of work credits you need to qualify for disability benefits depends on your age when you bec0me disabled. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years ending with the year you became disabled. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.
Your Social Security Statement shows whether you meet the work requirement at the time it was prepared. If you stop working under Social Security after the date of the Statement, you may not continue to met the disability requirement in the future.
If you have further questions regarding your case or your ability to qualify for Social Security Disability in San Diego or anywhere in California, please feel free to contact our office.
