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Social Security disability basics for disabled individuals

Unfortunately, the facts are that one out of every four Americans will become disabled by the age 67 and will be unable to work to earn a living. That is where Social Security disability insurance steps in to help protect disabled individuals with their needs and expenses while they are unable to work to support themselves and their families.

There are certain criteria that disabled individuals will have to meet to receive Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. Disabled individuals will need to meet both the medical condition and work history requirements to qualify for SSD benefits. Social Security disability insurance is paid into by workers through their taxes so it is necessary to have the required number of work history credits to qualify for benefits.

In addition to meeting work history requirements, the disabled individual must suffer from a medical condition that prevents the from working and is expected to last 12 months or longer or result in death in order to receive SSD benefits. Most claims for Social Security disability benefits are initially denied which can be a frustrating and time-consuming process for disabled individuals and their families when they least have time to wait. As a result, it is helpful for them to be familiar with the Social Security disability claims process and how they can obtain benefits.

Disabled individuals should know how to apply for benefits and be prepared to provide their medical records and history as part of the process. They should also be aware that there is an appeals process if their claim for benefits is denied. Understanding all of these aspects of the process can help place disabled individuals in the best possible position to obtain the often badly-needed benefits they can receive through Social Security disability insurance.