If you are unable to work because of a spinal cord injury, you may benefit from disability benefits administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Social Security Disability benefits can provide financial assistance through the monthly benefits and can give you access to Medicare, which is medical insurance to help with your medical care.
You can also get access to return to work incentives. A disability lawyer can improve your chances of a successful disability claim, so get a free case review.
Financial Help
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a disability program based off the claimant’s work history. To be covered by SSDI, one must have worked to earn enough credits and pay in enough taxes.
For most people, that means having worked five years full-time of the last 10 years. To qualify for SSDI, you must meet specific medical criteria that proves you are unable to work.
SSDI is based off your work earnings. Your benefits may increase when the SSA makes a cost-of-living adjustment for inflation. Your dependents may qualify for dependent benefits.
If you are receiving disability benefits, when you reach retirement age your benefits will switch over to retirement benefits. If you die, your spouse and dependents may qualify for survivor benefits off your account.
Medicare Coverage
Medicare is a health insurance program available to those who are disabled, or individuals aged 65 and older. You must be disabled per SSA guidelines for 24 months to be eligible to Medicare.
Part A Medicare is the hospitalization coverage and is available at no charge. Part B is the standard health insurance coverage and there is a premium unless you qualify for special assistance, such as Medicaid. Medicare helps you access the medical care that you need to treat your spinal cord injury as well as other medical issues.
Return To Work Incentives
If you receive disability benefits from the SSA, your spinal cord injury may eventually improve enough, or you may get to the point that you are interested in returning to work.
The SSA has two different programs, the Ticket to Work Program and Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS). The Ticket to Work program provides the services and support an individual needs to return to work and gain financial independence.
It provides – free of charge – vocational rehabilitation, training, job referrals, and other employment support services.
PASS is a written plan of action for pursuing and then acquiring a specific kind of job. The PASS will describe the steps that you will take as well as the services and items that you will need to reach your goal regarding work.
How An Attorney Can Help
Disability claims can be challenging. Those claimants represented by a disability lawyer are much more likely to have their claims approved and be awarded disability benefits.
When you retain a disability lawyer, you will not have to pay anything upfront. Get a free case review today, so you can determine how to proceed with a disability claim for a spinal cord injury.
Additional Resources
- Tips on Qualifying For Disability Benefits With a Spinal Condition
- Qualifying For Disability as a Paralyzed Veteran
- Applying for Disability With a Spine Disorder
- Connect With a Disability Attorney
- Degenerative Disc Disease and Disability Benefits
- 5 Signs Your Claim for Disability Benefits May Be Approved After a Spinal Cord Injury
