About Social Security Impairment: What You Must Know Prior To Filing For Handicap Benefits



Many people think of retirement living when they hear Social Security, nevertheless Social Security gives you benefits to people who are impaired as well.

The list of requirements that must be met for Social Security disability benefits is pretty lengthy, and many people don't meet up with those requirements. In fact, the Social Security Administration claims over 60% of applicants are usually denied each year as they simply don't meet the strict classification of disability.

Prior to filing for disability - tests you must meet to determine if you are eligible for benefits:

First, you need to be fully insured, which means you have attained 40 credits over 10 years in covered employment. In 2011, you have to earn at least $1,120 to receive one credit and $4,480 to earn four points (you can only earn four credits in a year). If you have less than 10 years of work history, there is an alternative evaluation based on your age to determine if you meet the duration of work test.

The second test is the latest work test, which fundamentally says that you must have gained at least 20 credits over the past five out of ten years that ends with the calendar quarter you became disabled. In general, you should have recent work background in order to qualify for disability benefits. Again, additional tests apply for individuals who become handicapped before age 31, given that they haven't had time to establish the work history that older workers have.

Social Security has a very strict definition of impairment, so make sure you qualify before submitting 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 must be totally and permanently disabled to be receiving benefits. According to Social Security a person is disabled when she or he is not able to work on account of a medical problem or condition that lasted or can be anticipated to last for at least one year (continuously), or that will result in the person's death. Also, the person will not be able to participate in any "substantial gainful activity".

If you satisfy the strict definition of disability above, then you should apply for Social Security benefits as soon as possible. First, the time to process your application is extremely lengthy; second, there is a mandatory five-month waiting period, so you will not receive benefits right away when filing for disability.

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