5 Powerful Reasons to File for SSDI Immediately
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a vital program designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a severe disability. At Harbison & Kavanagh, we understand the complexities of the SSDI application process and are here to guide you through every step. Here are five compelling reasons why you should file for SSDI immediately.
- Ensure Financial Stability During Extended Illness or Injury
If you are seriously ill or injured and expect to be unable to work for an extended period, SSDI benefits can be a lifeline. These benefits help cover essential expenses such as rent and food, providing a financial cushion when you need it most. Given the lengthy application process, filing as soon as possible ensures you start receiving benefits sooner.
When an illness or injury prevents you from working, the loss of income can be devastating. Without a steady paycheck, many people struggle to pay for basic necessities, which can lead to a cascade of financial problems. SSDI benefits act as a safety net, offering a reliable source of income that helps you maintain your standard of living. By filing for SSDI promptly, you can mitigate the financial strain and focus on your recovery.
Additionally, SSDI benefits can cover medical expenses related to your disability. This is particularly important if your illness or injury requires ongoing treatment, medication, or therapy. The financial assistance provided by SSDI can help you access the medical care you need without worrying about the cost.
- Protect Your Family in Case of Terminal Illness
If you have an illness expected to result in death within twelve months, qualifying for SSDI can provide much-needed financial protection for your family. Eligible family members, including children under 19 still in school or a spouse aged 62 or older, can receive separate SSDI benefits. This support helps compensate for the loss of your income, ensuring your loved ones are cared for.
In the face of a terminal illness, the emotional and financial burden on your family can be overwhelming. SSDI benefits offer a way to alleviate some of this stress by providing a steady income stream. This financial stability allows your family to focus on spending precious time together rather than worrying about how to make ends meet.
Moreover, SSDI benefits can help cover funeral expenses, ensuring that your family is not left with significant debt during an already difficult time. By filing for SSDI, you are taking a proactive step to protect your family’s financial future.
- Meet Requirements of Private Disability Insurance
For those covered by private disability insurance, applying for SSDI may be a requirement to continue receiving benefits. Private insurers often mandate SSDI applications to offset their costs. By qualifying for SSDI, you help reduce the financial burden on your private insurer while still receiving the same overall monthly disability benefits.
Many private disability insurance policies include a clause requiring policyholders to apply for SSDI if they become disabled. This is because SSDI benefits can reduce the amount that private insurers need to pay out. While this might seem like an inconvenience, it can actually work to your advantage. By receiving both SSDI and private disability benefits, you can maximize your total monthly income and ensure comprehensive coverage.
Additionally, qualifying for SSDI can provide long-term financial security. Private disability benefits often have a limited duration, whereas SSDI benefits can continue for as long as your disability persists. This extended coverage can be crucial in maintaining your financial stability over the long term.
- Supplement Workers’ Compensation Benefits
If you are completely disabled due to a workplace accident and are receiving workers’ compensation, filing for SSDI can act as a safety net. SSDI benefits can cover gaps if your workers’ compensation benefits change or if you opt for a lump sum settlement. This additional monthly income aids in managing your expenses effectively.
Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to provide financial assistance to employees who are injured on the job. However, these benefits can be subject to change, and in some cases, they may not be sufficient to cover all of your expenses. SSDI benefits can fill these gaps, ensuring that you have a consistent source of income regardless of changes in your workers’ compensation status.
Furthermore, if you choose to take a lump sum settlement from your workers’ compensation claim, SSDI benefits can provide ongoing financial support. This can be especially helpful in budgeting and managing your expenses, as lump sum settlements can be challenging to allocate over time.
- Safeguard Your Retirement Benefits
Filing for SSDI also protects your future retirement benefits. Social Security calculates retirement benefits based on the total credits earned throughout your career. If you are unable to work due to a disability and do not receive SSDI, those years are recorded as zeros, reducing your retirement benefits. SSDI ensures these years are not counted against you, preserving your retirement income.
When you become disabled and are unable to work, it can significantly impact your retirement benefits. Social Security uses your work history to calculate your retirement benefits, and any years without earnings can lower your overall benefit amount. By receiving SSDI, you prevent these “zero years” from being included in your work history, which helps maintain the value of your retirement benefits.
Additionally, SSDI recipients are automatically enrolled in Medicare after two years of receiving benefits. This can provide crucial health coverage and reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses, further protecting your financial well-being.
Contact Us for Expert Assistance
At Harbison & Kavanagh, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the SSDI application and appeals process. If you believe you qualify for SSDI and have questions, call us today at (804) 888-8000, or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced lawyers are here to provide the support and guidance you need.
