Life Articles

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

The bunch of requirements that really must be met for Social Security disability benefits is pretty long, and many people don't match 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.

Prior to filing for disability - tests you have to meet to see whether 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 points (you can only get four credits in a year). If you have lower 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 over the past five out of ten years that ends up with the calendar quarter you turned 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 establish the work history that more mature workers have.

Social Security features 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 upon partial disabilities, you have to be completely and permanently disabled to receive benefits. According to Social Security a person is handicapped when she or he is not able to work on account of a medical condition or disease 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 satisfy the strict definition of handicap above, then you should submit an application 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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