November 5, 2024

Disability checks are essential financial support systems provided to individuals who cannot work due to a disability. These payments help individuals meet basic needs like housing, food, and medical care. Disability benefits in the United States primarily come through two federal programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Each program is tailored to different populations, with unique requirements and processes for obtaining benefits.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Disability Checks in California is a federal insurance program for individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes but are now unable to work due to a disability. To qualify for SSDI, individuals must have a disabling medical condition that prevents them from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.

A key component of SSDI is the work credit requirement. Applicants must have earned a certain number of work credits based on their age and the number of years they have worked before becoming disabled. Typically, individuals need 40 work credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. Younger individuals may qualify with fewer credits.

Once approved, SSDI recipients receive monthly disability checks based on their lifetime earnings. The amount varies, but the average SSDI payment in 2024 is around $1,358 per month. After two years of receiving SSDI, beneficiaries also become eligible for Medicare, the federal health insurance program.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

While SSDI focuses on workers who have paid into the Social Security system, SSI is a need-based program designed to assist low-income individuals, including children, who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older. Unlike SSDI, SSI is not funded through Social Security taxes but by general tax revenues, and work history is not a factor in determining eligibility.

To qualify for SSI, individuals must meet strict income and asset limits. In 2024, the income limit for individuals is around $914 per month, and for couples, it is about $1,371. SSI recipients must also have limited resources, typically no more than $2,000 in assets for individuals or $3,000 for couples, excluding a home and one vehicle.

SSI beneficiaries receive monthly payments to cover basic needs. In addition to federal benefits, many states supplement the monthly SSI checks with additional payments. Beneficiaries also qualify for Medicaid, the state-run health insurance program for low-income individuals, as well as other assistance programs like food stamps.

Walker Firm, operating under the client-facing brand Casa de la Justicia, helps Spanish-speaking clients with their Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims. Based in Los Angeles, CA, and founded in 2022, we maintain a remarkable over 70% hearing win rate, surpassing the national average of 55%. With our robust media strategy, we attract over 2,000 clients annually. In addition, we partner with other local attorneys to ensure the thousands of injured Latinos that call us daily have access to experienced Spanish-speaking attorneys for all their needs, including worker’s compensation, auto accidents and slip and fall cases. For expert SSDI support and broader legal services, we are your go-to resource.

Application Process and Challenges

Applying for disability benefits can be a lengthy and challenging process. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires detailed medical documentation to prove that an applicant’s condition is severe enough to qualify. Many applicants are denied benefits on their initial application and must appeal the decision, which can take several months or even years to resolve.

It is common for applicants to seek legal assistance during the appeals process. Disability attorneys specialize in navigating the complex application and appeals process, often working on a contingency fee basis, meaning they are only paid if the applicant wins their case.

Ongoing Eligibility and Reviews

Once an individual begins receiving disability checks, the SSA periodically reviews their case to determine whether they remain eligible for benefits. These Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) assess whether the beneficiary’s condition has improved enough for them to return to work. The frequency of these reviews depends on the nature of the disability and the likelihood of improvement.

Disability checks are a lifeline for millions of Americans who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. Through SSDI and SSI, individuals receive the financial assistance they need to maintain a basic standard of living. Despite the challenges involved in applying for and maintaining benefits, disability checks play a crucial role in supporting the most vulnerable members of society.

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