Social Security Benefits FAQ

07/29/09

Because Social Security regulations are so complex, determining which social security benefits you qualify to receive can be a challenge. To make the process easier, here are answers to some of the questions frequently asked by applicants for disability benefits.

SSA is only for people whose disability is complete and who have been disabled (or are expected to be disabled) for one year or more, so there are no partial disability social security benefits. If you wish to file for partial disability, you will need to do so through a state or local program. If SSA denies you benefits on the grounds that you are not completely disabled, this will not bar you from applying for and receiving partial disability benefits from local and state disability programs.

However, you can continue to work while receiving disability social security benefits as long as you are able to work only at a low level or for short periods of time. You total income will be taken into account by the state agency that handles your social security case. If your annual earnings fall under a certain amount, you will still be considered eligible for disability. Note that your highest POTENTIAL income, not your CURRENT income, is the deciding factor: If you could earn above the minimum by changing to a different job that you are trained to do and physically capable of doing, then you will be considered ineligible for social security benefits. You will not be pressured to do work you are not able to perform. The state agency will consider your experience, education, medical condition, and even age when evaluating your ability to change jobs. If you would be able to support yourself if you switched to a better job, training and job search assistance are available

Many applicants are confused and annoyed by their social security agents' request to continue seeing doctors even after they have doctors' statements that there is no available medical treatment for the applicant's condition. If you are in this position, there is an explanation! First, the state agency in charge of your social security benefits may need more information to evaluate your case, and your regular doctors may not have the equipment or experience necessary to provide it. The agency may arrange for you to see another doctor. The examination is part of your case evaluation, not a part of your treatment plan.

Second, disability is not always permanent, and even untreatable conditions can improve. It is a good idea to have regular examinations to track the progress of your condition. Even without treatment, your condition may improve enough to allow you to return to work.

And third, medical breakthroughs happen every year. Why miss out on a cure because you stopped going to the doctor out of resignation? Occasional doctors' visits are a minor nuisance compared to the vast improvements you could someday see.