With Regards To Social Security Disability: What You Need To Know Ahead Of Filing For Disability Benefits

Most people think of retiring when they hear Social Security, nonetheless Social Security will provide benefits to people who are disabled as well.

The set of requirements that must be met for Social Security disability benefits is pretty long, and many people don't meet those requirements. In fact, the Social Security Administration says over 60% of applicants are generally denied each year as they don't meet the strict classification of disability.

Before filing for disability - tests you need to meet to determine if you are eligible for benefits:

First, you must be fully insured, which means you have earned 40 credits over 10 years in protected employment. In 2011, you need to earn at least $1,120 to receive one credit and $4,480 to earn four credits (you can only get four credits in a year). If you have less than 10 years of work history, there is an alternative test based on your age to determine if you meet the duration of work test.

The second test is the modern work test, which generally says that you must have received at least 20 credits in the last five out of ten years that winds up with the calendar quarter you became disabled. In general, you must have recent work history in order to qualify for disability benefits. Again, alternative tests apply for individuals who become incapacitated before age 31, given that they haven't had time to build the work history that some older workers have.

Social Security has a very strict definition of disability, so make sure you qualify before filling your Social Security disability application. It's vital that you note that Social Security is not going to pay benefits based on partial disabilities, you have to be totally and permanently disabled to receive benefits. According to Social Security a person is handicapped when she or he is not able to work because of a medical condition or condition that lasted or can be expected to last for at least one year (continuously), or that will result in the person's loss of life. Also, the person will not be able to participate in any "substantial gainful activity".

If you meet the strict definition of handicap above, then you should apply for Social Security benefits as soon as possible. First, the time to process your application is very lengthy; second, there is a mandatory five-month waiting period, so you will not receive benefits right away when filing for handicap.

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