If you are entitled to financial assistance through the Social Security Administration, it is always a good idea to review your case to ensure that you are receiving exactly what you may be entitled. Any number of issues may arise that might entitle you to increased benefits. In fact, there are several things that might entitle you to an increase in Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits in 2023.
Guidance is available, especially if you are unsure how to navigate the system to determine whether you are eligible for an increase in SSD benefits. There are also online tools that enable you to take a test to help you estimate an amount that you might have a right to receive.
Questions to ask to determine entitlement for SSD benefits
Answering the following questions can be helpful when you are trying to figure out whether you might be entitled to receive an increase in your SSD benefits:
- Has the adult child died who was providing financial support to you?
- Did your spouse pass away?
- Are your SSD benefits associated with your spouse’s or parent’s work?
- Are you a U.S. military veteran?
- Have you experienced loss of income or substantial reduction of income?
Each of these issues might mean that you have a right to more benefits than you are currently receiving.
Determining SSD or SSI eligibility
Just as certain issues might make you eligible for an increase in benefits, there are also issues that cause you to be ineligible for such programs. You will want to do some research ahead of time to determine eligibility according to your exact circumstances, such as whether you should receive benefits through your spouse’s retirement program.
If you have a deceased child who was providing more than half of your support, you might have a right to an increase in benefits if your son or daughter acquired enough work credits before he or she passed away. This is known as a parent’s benefit.
Making sure that you receive full benefits
Many people feel flustered or stressed when they are trying to determine what they are entitled to receive. Terms of eligibility in such programs can be complex and difficult to understand for the average person who may have no legal background regarding SSA issues.
You should never hesitate to reach out for additional support and guidance from someone who is knowledgeable about such issues. From filling out an application to filing an appeal or requesting an increase of benefits, it is less stressful to navigate the system when you have someone by your side who can offer experienced support.