Unexpected injuries can occur to Missourians at any time. For many, this can cause personal and financial problems over the long term. This is true regardless of how the injuries came about. Social Security disability is a useful protection for people in the event they are injured and find themselves suddenly unable to work and earn an income. Thinking about this eventuality and being prepared is essential no matter a person’s age or health status.
For those who suffer an injury, they might have health insurance to cover or partially cover their treatment. However, if they cannot work any longer, a frequent question that arises is what they should do next. Disability insurance is a vital protective device for this possibility. An employer might provide a worker with disability insurance, but it is optional. Some employees choose not to take part. An estimated 40 percent of employees enroll in disability insurance that is provided by around 213,000 employers. This is compared to 70 percent of people having life insurance. People might not think a severe injury can happen to them while they reluctantly acknowledge that death is inevitable.
People who are injured and do not have disability insurance through work should be aware of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This program helps those who are unable to work because they have become disabled with an injury, illness or condition. SSDI is funded through taxes paid by employers and workers. People who are deemed disabled by the Social Security Administration must have paid for a sufficient duration to have the work credits for SSDI.
The issue must keep the person from working and last or be expected to last for at least 12 months with an income of no more than $1,130 monthly. SSA taxes must have been paid and wages must have been earned for 40 quarters with 20 having been in the 10 years before the disability. For 2017, the maximum benefit is $2,687 each month. Most get between $700 and $1,700 per month with a current average of $1,171. It is also important to remember that many claims — more than half — are initially denied, so appeals are often necessary.
People who have an inability to work, are facing medical expenses and do not know where to turn after suffering from an injury should be cognizant of the possibility of pursuing Social Security disability benefits for injury. For assistance, it is important to consult with an attorney who can help clients seek Social Security disability after being injured.
Source: cbsnews.com, “When a sudden disability ends your income,” Ray Martin, Oct. 12, 2017
