Getting approved for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits will be a relief for New Jersey residents who are disabled and unable to work. Frequently, they will be grateful what they receive in disability payments and will not think about other strategies to increase their income. This is a mistake that can limit their ability to accrue savings. Understanding common misconceptions about SSD benefits and potential financial assistance is a key to maximizing the benefits and other sources of income while remaining eligible.
An estimated 25 percent of adults in the United States claim to have a disability. For those who are confronted with an inability to work because of that disability, SSD benefits are available. This is for those who have paid Social Security taxes. The amount the person can get is formula-based. If there are changes to the person’s circumstances, it can affect their eligibility. Importantly, there are other avenues to get assistance.
People often make the mistake of not understanding their eligibility. The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows a person to have an account with an approximation of their disability payments. This is generally set and will not change. For those applying for disability, it is imperative to do so without hesitation. The basics of the application and the requirements, such as the disability lasting for a minimum of 12 months, should be known beforehand. The treating physician can assist in completing the forms.
Some people who have accrued enough time to retire with Social Security might do so without knowing that if the retirement is due to an injury, illness or condition, they can get SSD benefits and receive more with that strategy. They can then get Social Security when they reach the applicable age. People who are getting disability will also ignore other avenues of assistance such a food stamps. This too is a mistake as the SSD benefits and other forms of assistance can be a great help for a person’s living situation.
