Did you know that your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) might qualify you for additional benefits? If you are unsure of your eligibility, the SSDI benefits available to you, or if you require assistance with the application process, consider enlisting the help of a Daytona SSDI attorney. 

In order to begin the process of applying for benefits, a Daytona SSDI attorney will review your eligibility and qualifications.  A qualified SSDI beneficiary must be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity, or continue their current position because of a medical condition. This also includes the inability to adjust to a new position due to a disability. In order to qualify, an applicant must also have worked in jobs covered by Social Security long enough to earn the required number of work credits. One of the following must be true about your disability in order to qualify for SSDI and its additional benefits:
  • Your medical condition has lasted a year
  • Your medical condition is expected to last a year
  • Your medical condition is expected to result in death 
If you successfully meet the required SSDI criteria, you can apply for monthly payments and are eligible to apply for a selection of additional benefits. 

Medicare Coverage

Any applicant with SSDI benefits is automatically eligible for Medicare after a 24-month qualifying period. The plan, which begins on the 25th month of receiving SSDI checks, includes both hospital and medical insurance.  

Reduced Taxes

Depending on the level of your household income, SSDI benefits are either 50% or 85% taxable. According to the IRS, recipients only pay taxes on their SSDI benefits if their household income—including that of a spouse—exceeds the income threshold listed on their tax filing status. Daytona SSDI attorneys report that most recipients do not pay taxes on their benefits because of a lack of secondary income. 

Family CoverageDaytona SSDI attorney

You may also be eligible to receive a family benefit pension if your household includes a spouse, a divorced spouse, children under the age of 18, or an adult child with a disability diagnosis before the age of 22. Eligible family members will need to provide a Social Security number and birth certificate, and spouses must show proof of marriage. As a general standard, most family members are eligible for a benefit of up to 50% of your SSDI payment amount.

Back to Work Benefits

Daytona SSDI attorneys find that many applicants choose to work despite their medical condition. These individuals are able to receive benefits until their total income exceeds the SSDI limits. Those who do take time off and later return to work must alert Social Security in order to be placed on a trial period. During this time, SSDI recipients can work up to nine months while still receiving benefits. 

Survivor Benefits

Surviving spouses, children, and dependent parents may also be eligible for benefits if the original recipient was insured prior to their death. The monthly benefit amount depends on the work history and lifetime earnings of the deceased. Ultimately, the longer he or she worked in jobs covered by Social Security, the higher the survivor benefits will be. Of course, there are always exceptions and a skilled Daytona SSDI attorney will be able to provide insight tailored to your unique situation.

Enlist the Help of a Trusted Daytona SSDI Attorney

Culbertson, Jacobs & LaBoda, PLLC offers almost five decades of experience in Social Security law. We have two of the 10 attorneys in the state of Florida certified for Social Security Disability law. Contact our office today to schedule a complimentary consultation and get the help you deserve.