The benefits provided through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program support individuals who become unable to work due to a long-term medical condition. However, qualifying for Trinity SSDI benefits can be difficult, as a disabled worker must meet strict criteria.
If you need assistance applying for benefits or appealing a denied claim, consider working with a knowledgeable SSDI lawyer. With help from an attorney, you may have a better chance of success.
Benefits Provided by the Social Security Administration
The Social Security Administration (SSA) pays benefits through different programs, and workers pay into the program through payroll taxes. As with retirement benefits, SSDI benefits in Trinity are also only available to workers who have paid into the program for a sufficient number of years.
The SSA provides survivor benefits to individuals who have lost the support of a parent or spouse due to death. In addition, the SSA administers another benefit program that does not have an employment criterion for eligibility. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides income benefits for people with limited resources who are either disabled or who have reached retirement age.
SSDI Benefit Amounts Are Based on Average Income
All disabled workers in Trinity who qualify for SSDI will not necessarily receive the same payments. Amounts are calculated based on the income earned while the employee was actively working and paying Social Security taxes.
The SSA averages the earnings and applies a formula to compute a base amount for benefits. Each year, the amount a disabled worker may receive is capped, and each year the formula for calculating benefits is adjusted. Benefits an employee receives through other programs may reduce the amount of SSDI benefits.
SSA pays disability benefits after a worker has been disabled for at least six months, although sometimes the worker may be able to receive back pay for those six months. The six-month timetable is calculated starting with the first full month of disability, and benefits are paid in the month after they accrue.
Family Members of a Disabled Worker May Receive SSDI Benefits
Spouses and children of disabled workers in Trinity may themselves qualify to receive SSDI benefits in some situations. Family members who may obtain benefits include:
- Spouses aged 62 or older
- Spouses caring for the child of the qualifying disabled worker, if that child is under age 16 or disabled
- Former spouses aged 62 or older (if not remarried)
- Children under age 18 (or 19 if in high school)
- Older children who became disabled before age 22
In some cases, stepchildren and grandchildren may receive SSDI benefits in Trinity as well. An accomplished attorney could assist in explaining which family members may qualify in individual circumstances.
Assistance Obtaining Trinity SSDI Benefits
In addition to adequate work history, applicants for SSDI benefits must demonstrate that their medical condition renders them unable to perform gainful employment. Providing evidence to meet this standard can prove challenging.
The SSA often denies an initial claim, and applicants often must appeal the decision to obtain SSDI benefits in Trinity. In many situations, applicants must present their case at an administrative hearing in order to receive benefits.
If you need help with your application or appealing a denial, consider contacting an experienced SSDI attorney. A knowledgeable legal advocate could help demonstrate your qualifications and fight for the benefits you need.