In this blog, our Orlando disability benefits law firm team shares insights and helpful information related to common SSDI claim terms.
Filing for Social Security Disability benefits can come along with a lot of new, and sometimes complicated information. Our Orlando disability benefits law firm has helped hundreds of claimants navigate this process over the decades, and we know how challenging it can be. Having an experienced attorney on your side to guide you and answer your questions can make all the difference.
Decoding SSDI Claims: Common Terms Explained
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program designed to provide income to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. This U.S. federal program was formally established in 1956, but its roots date back to the inception of the Social Security Act in 1935 under President Roosevelt.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is a program aimed at offering financial aid to individuals who are elderly, visually impaired, or living with disabilities, including minors. This aid is accessible to those with restricted income and resources.
Concurrent claim: A concurrent claim arises when an individual simultaneously applies for both SSDI and SSI benefits. Such scenarios typically occur when the monthly SSDI payment is relatively low due to prior lower wages or minimal recent employment history. This provision ensures that individuals with limited income have access to additional financial support.
Alleged onset date: The date an applicant asserts their disability commenced is referred to as the disability onset date. This
date is crucial as it influences the potential amount of past-due benefits or backpay the applicant is entitled to, particularly if the onset date predates the claim filing. The onset date can be pivotal for claim approval, given the requirement that an applicant’s disability must either have lasted, or be anticipated to last, for a minimum of 12 months to qualify for disability benefits. The onset date essentially initiates this 12-month duration prerequisite.
Computation years: Computation years are defined as the years where an individual has the highest earnings. The total earnings for these years are aggregated and then divided by the number of months in those same years to derive either the Average Monthly Earnings (AME) or the Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME). The Social Security Administration utilizes the 35 years with the highest earnings for the purpose of computing retirement benefits.
Credits (Social Security credits): Formerly known as “Quarters of Coverage”, Social Security credits are accumulated as you work and contribute to Social Security taxes. These credits contribute to your eligibility for prospective Social Security benefits. In a given year, you can accumulate up to four credits at most. Generally, a total of 40 credits is needed to become eligible for benefits. However, individuals who are younger require fewer credits to qualify for disability.
Substantial gainful activity: Eligibility for disability benefits hinges on a person’s inability to participate in substantial gainful activity (SGA). Ordinarily, someone earning beyond a specified monthly amount, after subtracting impairment-related work expenses, is deemed to be engaging in SGA. The monthly earning threshold for SGA varies depending on the individual’s disability type. For instance, the Social Security Act sets a higher SGA amount for statutorily blind individuals, while Federal regulations define a lower SGA amount for non-blind individuals.
Culbertson, Jacobs & LaBoda is Your Orlando Disability Benefits Law Firm
Our team is here to assist as you pursue your Social Security Disability benefits. No matter if you are applying for the first time or appealing a denied claim, let our experienced attorneys fight for you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.