The idea of needing financial assistance from the government does not sit well with many people. Unfortunately, the idea of needing such help often comes with stigma, which could sometimes lead individuals who need Social Security Disability benefits to avoid applying. However, with the right information, parties may be able to see how useful it could be.
SSDI is for individuals who have a qualifying disabling condition that will prevent them from working for at least a year or prove terminal within a year’s time. Often, these conditions can result in individuals struggling with their daily activities, and the possibility of going to work is out of the question. Still, some people may feel as if they have to push themselves to work, potentially causing more harm, or they feel as if they have to go without because they do not have the funds.
In hopes of allowing individuals to see the usefulness of SSDI, dispelling the following myths may be helpful:
- SSDI benefits are a handout: This misconception commonly comes from those who do not have disabilities and who unjustly believe that those who need SSDI are simply milking the government for funds they did not earn. However, SSDI is earned through the years of work that a person puts in before applying for benefits.
- SSDI is only good for money: While SSDI could provide a monthly benefit payment, qualifying for SSDI could also have other benefits, such as Medicare coverage and Social Security retirement protection.
- SSDI prevents people from returning to work: Though someone with a disability that lasts only a year could receive benefits, it does not mean that he or she has a get-out-of-work-free card for life. The Social Security Administration conducts periodic reviews of cases and can stop disability payments for those who can go back to work, and most people want to return to work after recovery.
If individuals are living with a serious disability and are hesitant to apply for Social Security Disability benefits because of these or other misconceptions, they may want to look further for reliable information. Though it may be a matter of pride for some parties to earn their own income, knowing that SSDI benefits have been earned through their years of prior work may be helpful. If they do feel ready to start the application process, having legal assistance may be beneficial.
