Types of Disability Claims

If you are disabled, you may be eligible for government assistance.

There are three types of claims programs for the disabled. Two are run by the Social Security Administration. The third involves private insurance policies that cover an individual or groups of individuals. The programs are confusing and sometimes overlap, so it is wise to contact an attorney who handles disability and Social Security issues if you are planning to file a claim.

Social Security Disability (SSD) Benefits

SSD benefits are available to a disabled person who paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes when he or she was employed. To qualify, a former employee must have paid payroll taxes and worked at least part-time in at least 10 of 20 work quarters. In addition, successful applicants for SSD benefits receive Medicare benefits two years after the advent of their disability. If you have worked long enough, you will receive benefits for the maximum coverage period of five years.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI benefits kick in if you are uninsured or become disabled following the expiration of your insured period for SSD benefits. Such payments are substantially less than SSD benefits, although they do include Medicare coverage. Your payments are reduced if you live in a house owned by a relative who is working.

Private Insurance

If your employer offered a group disability policy, or you had an individual disability policy, you may be eligible for benefits under the policy. Many insurance companies require you to file for SSD benefits when you file under the private policy that covers you, and your benefit payments under the insurance policy may be reduced by the amount of any SSD income that you receive. If overpayments are created by double-dipping, you are responsible for repaying the excess amounts.

Considerations

Under the Social Security programs, you are considered disabled if you are unable to work, have a physical or mental disability that you can prove by way of medical records and your disability is expected to last at least 12 months or may result in death. If you file for benefits under a private insurance plan, you are most likely to be turned down for claims involving back pain, pregnancy complications, carpal tunnel syndrome or mental health conditions.

References

• Elkind & Shea: Disability Benefit Types and Qualifications
• Social Security Professionals Types of Disability Claims
• Northern Virginia Injury Board: Four Types of Disability Claims That Are Frequently Denied