Filing for Social Security Disability benefits can be a daunting process Whether you are navigating the waters yourself or have sought the counsel of a social security lawyer, it helps to have as much information as possible on your side. The following are frequently asked questions about applying for Social Security Disability benefits.
Q: I am 10 percent disabled through workers compensation. Can I get Social Security benefits?
A: Yes, you can apply for Social Security Disability, even though you are on workers compensation. You can collect both workers compensation and Social Security Disability benefits, up to a maximum of 80 percent of your highest annual income average. Your 80 percent limit may be higher or lower than that of someone else, since the annual earning history of one person differs from that of another. Because of that, some applicants are eligible to receive only partial Social Security disability benefits, while others may be eligible for full benefits. Your Social Security allotment will be decreased to meet that 80 percent limit, if the combined total of your workers compensation and social security benefits are more than your income average limit. Say that your monthly average income was $5000, your 80 percent maximum monthly cap would be $4000. If you are currently receiving $2500 per month in workers compensation, and are eligible for $2500 in Social Security benefits, you would be exceeding your 80 percent limit by $1000. The monthly disability benefit from Social Security would only be $1500, so as not to exceed the 80 percent cap of $4000.
If there are any changes to the amount of workers compensation benefits you receive or if you receive them as one large payment per year, please contact the Social Security Administration or get help from a social security lawyer. Your Social Security allotments are often affected when the amount or method of payment of workers comp is altered from when you originally applied.
Q: Are my Social Security benefits contingent upon my assets?
A: The disability benefits awarded to you under Social Security should not be influenced by your assets. Disability benefits are contingent upon what you put into Social Security when you were working and the duration of your tenure in the workforce. It is a benefit that is earned. You should receive the same amount of benefits, regardless of your assets. If, however, you are applying for the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, your assets will affect those benefits. All assets are factored in when the Social Security Administration examines eligibility for SSI, since those benefits are contingent upon need.
If you are unsure how to report your assets or confused about whether you qualify for SSD or SSI benefits, contact a Social Security claims representative or seek advice from a social security lawyer.
Q: Is it a requirement for me to see one of the Social Security doctors?
A: Not necessarily. The disability examiner for your case may not feel he has enough background on your case and wishes for you to undergo a consultative exam (CE.) If, for example, your doctor cannot provide many details about your condition or you have not received recent care for your treatment, your disability examiner may request a consultative examination. The doctor performing your consultative examination does so simply to provide the most current medical information about your case. The CE will be looked at in concert with your other medical records. And you will not have to pay for the requested examination. If you believe you and your medical practitioners have provided the most current and thorough information about your case and you do not wish to undergo a CE, contact your Social Security representative. If you are confused about next steps to take, you may wish to contact a social security lawyer. Similar Entries Veterans lawyer . Social security help . Attorneys for social security disability .

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