5 Common Misconceptions About Social Security Disability Benefits

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There are many outlets for legal advice in Oklahoma City, but it is important to be sure you are getting the right advice and information. Avoid making a serious mistake by understanding the truth behind these common misconceptions about your Social Security disability benefits: Misconception #1: You can remain employed while collecting disability benefits. Yes and no. The Ticket to Work program by the Social Security Administration does allow adults receiving disability benefits to remain employed - with some stipulations. If you want to work while receiving disability benefits, there is a 9 month “trial period”, during which there are no limits on your earnings or changes to your benefits. For 36 months following the trial period, you may collect your disability benefits if your earnings are not “substantial”. During this time, if you make more than $1,070 per month your benefits will stop. Be sure to keep the Social Security Administration informed of when you start and stop work, and keep track of your income and expenses to be sure you are making the best of the situation. Supplemental security income (SSI) follows slightly different rules. If you receive SSI, you are generally allowed to receive income from your job alongside your SSI payments as long as your earnings do not exceed the SSI income limits. The rules vary from state to state, so be sure to be informed. Social Security disability lawyers can help you find the right balance. Misconception #2: You can collect unemployment benefits while waiting for your social security disability benefits. Disability claims and unemployment claims may seem like they overlap, but there is a big difference between the two that you must be aware of. When filing for Social Security disability benefits, you are claiming that you are not able to perform your work for at least 12 months due to a mental and/or physical disability. When filing for unemployment benefits, you must claim that you are able and ready to perform work should you find it. Again, specific rules vary from state to state, but in general, it is not advised to file for both types of benefits simultaneously. Misconception #3: You don’t really need to follow through with doctor visits or prescription medications after your disability benefits are enacted. In a nutshell, if you aren’t visiting doctors for your medical condition and are not following through with their recommendations, it will be difficult to convince Social Security that your condition is severe and serious enough that you should earn benefits. A lack of medical evidence in your file may make your request for benefits tricky, but not impossible. There are some acceptable reasons for not seeking medical treatment that Social Security finds acceptable for a person to still receive full benefits. Misconception #4: Obtaining Social Security disability benefits is simple. Filing for Social Security disability benefits can be a complex and long process, and you should be informed of its progress along the way. Once you file claim, either you or your lawyer should regularly check its status to be aware of any actions, deadlines, or other follow-up needed. Be sure to adequately prepare for your disability hearing, and definitely be aware of appeal time limits. Misconception #5: You can’t afford a disability lawyer. Most Social Security disability lawyers and advocates do not charge high up-front fees for their services. You may enter into a contingency fee agreement with your lawyer, meaning that they are only paid if and after the case is won. Many lawyers (in Oklahoma City) will also review your case for free and/or provide a free consultation.