Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a program that provides income payments to workers when a disability renders them unable to continue supporting themselves. Because many workers also support family members, the program also provides Dunedin SSDI benefits for children and spouses.
Demonstrating eligibility for SSDI can be complex, but it is a necessary hurdle that must be overcome to obtain benefits. Because these benefits can be critical to a family’s financial security, applicants frequently find it useful to retain an experienced attorney for help with an application. An SSDI lawyer could also help families appeal their denied claims.
Amount of SSDI Benefits for Dependents
The amount of benefits disabled workers receive through the SSDI program depends on the earnings of the workers during their productive years. Family members who are eligible to receive derivative benefits can receive up to half the amount awarded to the disabled employee.
It is important to realize, however, that SSDI has a cap on the total amount of benefits available to children and spouses in Dunedin. The percentage varies somewhat according to different factors, but in general, a family can receive no more than 150 to 180 percent of the disabled worker’s benefits.
Therefore, if many family members apply for benefits, they may receive an amount that is less than 50 percent of the eligible worker’s total. Benefits paid to a divorced spouse, however, will not reduce the amount paid to the rest of the worker’s family.
Family Members Eligible for Derivative Benefits
Dunedin SSDI benefits for children and spouses are not available in every family situation. If the circumstances warrant payment of family benefits, eligible parties include:
- Husbands and wives
- Divorced spouses
- Children
For a spouse to receive SSDI benefits based on the husband or wife’s disability, that spouse must either be aged 62 or older or be caring for the worker’s child who is under age 16 or disabled. For children, stepchildren, or dependent grandchildren to receive benefits, they must be under the age of 18 (or 20 if still in high school) or suffer from a disability that began before they reached the age of 22.
Consult with an Attorney for More Information About Dunedin SSDI Benefits for Children and Spouses
The SSDI program is administered by the Social Security Administration, a sizeable federal agency with strict rules for determining eligibility. Unfortunately, SSA’s requirements can be complex and difficult to understand. Even qualified applicants often receive a denial notice because they fail to document their eligibility according to agency guidelines. To increase their chances of success, many applicants choose to retain legal counsel.
Applicants who are seeking benefits, who have been denied benefits, or who have received notice that their benefits will be discontinued frequently seek assistance from an experienced SSDI lawyer. A skilled attorney could fully explain SSA’s requirements, collect the necessary documentation, and help disabled workers assemble a compelling application or appeal. To learn more about Dunedin SSDI benefits for children and spouses, contact a lawyer today and schedule a consultation.