Are you a victim of social security disability myths?
Without the correct facts, it’s easy to let misconceptions float around in your head. While these lies might seem harmless, they can be damaging. When you’re afraid to apply for social security benefits, you can wind up missing out on opportunities for your financial future.
To help keep you on the right track, we’re here to debunk some of the most common myths. Read on to get the truth once and for all!
It’s Hard to Qualify for Social Security Disability
Myth number 1: Social security is challenging to qualify for. This lie couldn’t be further from the truth.
While there are specific requirements, seeking approval is easier than you might think. As long as you meet the particular criteria, you can receive support in no time at all.
Social security disability is a program that provides financial and medical support. To qualify you have to be deemed disabled by the Social Security Administration’s definition.
Next, you’ll need evidence of your disability. The disability can include a detailed statement from your doctor about the date of your injury. The statement should also detail how your condition prevents you from working and earning money.
When you visit your doctor, let them know the purpose of your visit. You can even visit a physician who specializes in SSDI appointments.
The Payments Aren’t Enough
Myth number 2: Social security doesn’t pay enough. The truth is that social security disability payments are often very generous! The benefit is designed to support you and provide all the money you need for food, clothing, housing, and so on.
Aside from this monthly amount, there are also cost of living increases every year to help keep up with inflation. If you’re investing your money, you might not see these increases, but the benefit will help you stay afloat financially.
When it comes to surviving a hardship, every little bit counts. Being able to afford housing, and transportation, can help speed up your recovery. The better your living situation is, the easier it’ll be for your to focus on your health!
You Have to Be Above 85 Years of Age
Myth number 3: Social security is only for people in their mid 80’s or older. This information has been around since social security was created, and it’s simply not true!
Anyone disabled and unable to work can qualify for social security benefits, regardless of their age. While the average disability lasts for two years, it’s possible to be eligible before you even reach retirement age.
If you’re under the age of 24, you might be able to qualify if your disability prevents you from earning a substantial amount of money or working on a full-time basis. These requirements also apply to those over 65 since this group usually experiences more disabilities than younger people due to old age.
It’s One Size Fits All
Myth number 4: Social security is one size fits all. This myth might be the most damaging of all because it encourages people not to apply for social security benefits if they’re struggling with any medical issue that keeps them from working.
This benefit is not just for older adults who are out of the workforce. It applies to anyone who can’t work due to disabilities or health conditions that prevent them from having a job and earning money.
There’s Trouble if You Earn a Certain Amount
Myth number 5: The government will take away your social security checks if you go out and earn too much money. This myth is particularly tricky since there’s some truth to it.
There are certain limits to how much you can earn before losing your benefits. However, that doesn’t instantly mean you can’t earn any type of income.
If you have a significant health problem, it’s possible to remain on social security while earning money from a side job! If you’re looking for a well-paying part-time job, check out of popular gigs. Then double-check the SSDI requirements for the type of job you’re considering.
When in doubt, you can always reach out to a financial advisor. Let them know the benefits you’re receiving, and the new position you’re considering taking. That way you can proceed with confidence!
It Must Be a Lifetime Benefit
Myth number 6: Once you receive your social security benefits, they’re yours for life. Unfortunately, this myth is also partially true. While some benefits could last a lifetime, others will expire in the future if they go unused.
There are many reasons you might not be able to use your benefit anymore after qualifying for them when you were younger. Some people might apply to win their claims but never use the social security benefits they receive.
You can apply at any time, even if you had benefits in the past.
Whatever your situation is, application forms are available online here, and it’s easy to get started. You can even apply for disability benefits online in most cases!
Your Work History Will Be Used to Decide Your Claim
Myth number 7: It won’t be easy to win your social security case if you haven’t worked a lot. This is another myth that’s a flat-out lie.
You’ll be happy to know that in most cases, your work history doesn’t affect whether you qualify for social security benefits or not. They encourage people who might otherwise struggle financially due to disabilities and health concerns to apply so they can meet their basic needs!
Even if you have been out of the workforce for a long time, this often won’t affect how easy it’ll be for you to get approved. As long as a medical condition prevents you from working, you’ll likely meet the requirements for benefits. The disability benefit amounts seem small, but they’re enough to meet basic needs and stay afloat.
Intense Pain Equals Social Security Funding
Myth number 8: You can’t receive social security funding if you only suffer from a bit of pain. This myth is 100% false too.
In reality, having a lot of pain or suffering from one or more ailments will likely make it easier for you to qualify for your social security benefits. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t other factors at play!
Everyone differently. The government won’t deny someone help simply because their pain levels don’t seem high enough to the average person. Instead, they’ll look at each applicant’s medical history and make a decision based on that.
The nature of the injury or debilitating condition also plays a role. For instance, some injuries limit mobility but don’t cause a lot of pain. These individuals should still try applying for benefits, even if they’re not experiencing chronic discomfort.
Taking Payments Is a Sign of Failure
Myth number 9: If you take social security payments, you’re failing at life. We understand how this myth can quickly start to feel like a reality.
After all, you’ve been working hard and using your money to pay bills and live for years. It can be very discouraging when you’re facing a change in your earning potential.
That said, it’s essential to keep things in perspective and stay positive. Applying for assistance is a step in the right direction.
Focus on your needs, and don’t give up if it takes some time to win your case. You’ll be able to use the monthly allowance from social security funds to help you meet those needs while also allowing yourself time to heal and recover from your illness. In the end, you’ll be able to look back at all of this as a temporary setback that was well worth it in the long run!
You’ll Lose Benefits if You Return to Work
Myth number 10: You stand to lose your social security funding if you start working again. No matter what reasons you have for returning to work, this myth isn’t true.
Again, remember that SSDI is not like other forms of disability insurance. The government was very thoughtful about the design of this program.
They made it so that it wouldn’t act as a permanent handout. Instead, it’s supposed to help people who are suffering financially but don’t qualify for other types of assistance. If someone gets back on their feet and starts earning money again, they’re likely going to be far less reliant on government support in the future!
If this is your situation, you shouldn’t feel guilty or embarrassed about returning to work. You’ll still be able to use social security disability funding — just not forever.
Apply for SSDI Benefits
Now you know how to spot social security disability myths from a mile away! When in doubt, remember that the SSDI is supposed to help you meet your everyday needs and allow you time to get better.
You can also rest easy knowing that taking SSDI payments isn’t a sign of failure or evidence that you’ll never return to work again. It’s proof of how strong you are! Find an online application today, and review the requirements to see if you qualify. Then see what the rest of this site has to offer.