At first glance, social security disability (SSD) might seem confusing. However, it does not have to be.
Here are the basic facts about disability that everyone needs to know.
SSD provides funds for workers
When workers earn income, they pay social security taxes that fund the SSD program. The program then pays benefits to workers. Like state programs, it replaces lost revenue that individuals cannot earn due to disabilities.
The SSA is strict about disabilities
The Social Security Administration has different rules about disabilities than state governments and private insurers. The SSA does not offer partial or temporary disability benefits.
Instead, applicants must meet stricter disability guidelines. That means they must have a medical condition that prevents them from working, lasts more than one year or causes their death. In addition, it must keep them from their previous job and other jobs they qualify for.
Disability is available for all ages
A lot of young people think that they will never need disability payments. However, traumatic events can affect young people. Things like cancer can affect young people and the elderly. Approximately 25 percent of the population encounters a disability before retirement age. In this case, many young people may need SSD payments to supplement their income. That is why disability is available to all ages.
SSD payments are modest
Most disabled workers receive around $1,000 per month. That puts beneficiaries hovering at the poverty level. Unfortunately, this is the majority of income for most disabled workers. However, this modest amount makes a big difference for people who cannot earn revenue. Now, they can cover their basic needs.
These facts are critical to helping people understand the SSD program. Spread these facts to help someone eligible understand SSD.