Different Types of Social Security Disability Benefits
There are five major types of Social Security disability benefits. Each program is administered by the Social Security Administration. While there are unique requirements to qualify for each program, all require that the applicant meet the SSA’s definition of disabled. If you are preparing to file for Social Security disability benefits in Kingsport, you will need to familiarize yourself with the different programs.
Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB)
DIB is the primary benefit program available through Social Security. It is also known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This program exists to support individuals with disabilities who were once able to work but are now disabled by a medical condition. Qualifying individuals must have worked in recent years (usually at least five out of the last 10 years) and have paid a proportionate amount of FICA taxes.
Disabled Widow and Widower’s Benefits (DWB)
For disabled individuals who lose their spouse, or individuals who become disabled soon after this loss, the SSA provides support in the form of benefits. Disabled Widow and Widower’s Benefits are paid to surviving spouses who become disabled before or within seven years of the death of their partner. To qualify, the applicant must also be at least 50 years old. The deceased spouse must have worked enough to be insured for DIB benefits under Social Security rules.
Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC)
Disabled Adult Child Benefits are paid to the adult children of parents who qualify for Social Security benefits. This is an option available to adult children who become disabled before the age of 22, but may be eligible for greater benefits due to their parent’s contributions to the Social Security system through FICA taxes. The qualifying parent must be currently receiving Social Security retirement benefits, deceased, or be receiving DIB benefits.
Supplemental Security Income Benefits (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income Benefits are intended for individuals who have limited income and resources available to them. This program benefits disabled adults and children as well as non-disabled individuals 65 years of age or older. Applicants’ resources are assessed in order to determine whether or not they qualify. It is not necessary for individuals to have paid any amount into the Social Security program to receive this type of need-based benefit.
Child’s Disability Benefits (CDB)
When a child is born with a disabling condition, or develops one before the age of 18, the financial toll on their family may be significant. In order to support disabled children and their families, the Social Security Administration provides Child’s Disability Benefits to qualifying individuals. A child who has a limiting or severe physical or mental condition which results in severe and marked functional limitations, or is blind, will be considered qualified for CDB. There is no minimum age for Child Disability Benefits – benefits can begin on the day the child is born if they meet the criteria. Household resources are assessed in order to determine whether or not they qualify.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits in Kingsport
Applying for Social Security disability benefits in Kingsport can be a long and arduous process. If you believe that you or a family member is entitled to receive any of the disability benefits listed above, and you are not sure how to proceed, come in and speak with one of our dedicated Social Security disability lawyers at Drozdowski & Rabin.
A legitimate claim is only half of the equation when it comes to winning benefits. Disability advocates who understand this detailed and complicated process know how to present the facts. Don’t take a chance with your financial future. Reach out today to speak with our attorneys.
