7 Social Security Disability Terms You Need to Know
If you are ill or injured and unable to work, you may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability payments and medical insurance. As Social Security lawyers, we understand that these payments and insurance will make your life much more comfortable and secure.
We also acknowledge that applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be confusing, in part, because of the terminology. The Social Security Administration’s use of terms may not be the same as your every day use of the same terms.
To help you understand your rights and potential benefits, we describe the 7 most commonly used terms in Social Security Disability law. However, if there are terms, concepts, or forms that you don’t fully understand or you wonder how they apply to your individual situation, consult with a qualified Social Security Disability attorney at (855) 773-4669 or by email info@hoppinglawgroup.com.
1. Alleged Onset Date
Alleged onset date (AOD)is the date you, as the Social Security Disability applicant, became disabled (i.e. the date you were injured or become too sick to work.)
2. Appeal
If your application for Social Security Disability benefits is denied (as is quite common), you must tell the Social Security Administration that you want your case to continue (i.e. appeal), within the very limited time period of 60 days.
3. Disability
In the Social Security Disability world, “disability” means that you are unable perform any substantial gainful activity because you are injured or ill (and your illness or injury is expected to last more than one year.)
When defining “disability,” the Social Security Administration uses these words: You can’t work “by reason of any medically determinable physical and/or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”
4. FICA Tax
If you worked under the table and didn’t pay FICA taxes (Social Security and Medicare), you will not be eligible to collect Social Security Disability benefits. FICA is an abbreviation for the Federal Insurance Contributions Act.
If you paid FICA taxes for two of the last five years and meet other eligibility requirements, you may be approved for benefits.
5. Medical Benefits
Those approved for Social Security Disability benefits are eligible for Medicare health insurance two years after the approval date. Medicare is not just for older folks.
6. Social Security Disability Beneficiaries
Applicants for Social Security Disability benefits must go through an application process to determine whether they qualify.
Social Security Disability beneficiaries are those who have been found eligible for benefits because they have worked and paid into system (via FICA taxes) for two of the last five years and are unable to work due to injury or illness.
7. Social Security Lawyers
A Social Security Disability attorney is a lawyer who focuses his or her practice on helping people obtain the social security benefits they need and deserve. The three main social security programs are Social Security Disability (SSD), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Widows’ or Widowers’ Disability benefits.
Where to Get Help Obtaining Social Security Disability Benefits
Our Texas Social Security Disability Benefit attorneys would be happy to assist you in getting the benefits you deserve and helping you to understand the terms and process. For more information visit our website. Your next step is to call our office at (855) 773-4669 or email us at info@hoppinglawgroup.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
