Types of SSD Benefits in Sandy Springs
The U.S. Social Security Administration, known to many in Sandy Springs as the SSA, administers different varieties of Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. These include several types of benefits payable to those who are disabled and unable to work, as well as family members of those suffering from disabilities.
The various kinds of available SSD benefits can be confusing, and the process of determining eligibility and obtaining benefits can be even more so. As such, it may be helpful for you understand in a general sense the types of SSD benefits in Sandy Springs.
Disability Programs Administered by the SSA
The SSA manages two different programs that provide benefits to those who suffer from long-term disabilities and are therefore unable to sustain gainful employment. The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program pays benefits to workers and their family members if the worker has worked for a long enough period of time—at least some of which is recent—and has paid Social Security taxes.
By contrast, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program pays benefits to disabled workers based on demonstrated financial need. An applicant does not need to have paid into the system to qualify for benefits. The SSI program is not financed through the Social Security tax system but rather is administered by SSA.
Someone who meets the qualifications may be eligible to receive both SSDI and SSI benefits. A qualified disability attorney can help an individual applicant determine which types of Sandy Springs SSD benefits they may be eligible to receive.
Types of Benefits Under the Umbrella of SSDI
People in Sandy Springs may be generally familiar with the SSA’s Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) program that pays benefits to employees who are unable to work. However, the SSDI system also provides benefits to eligible family members under certain circumstances.
Disabled Widow/Widower Benefits (DWB) pay income to widows and widowers based on the earning record of a deceased spouse. The widow or widower must be between the ages of 50 to 60 and must have become disabled within a certain period of time in order to qualify. However, the payment of benefits is not dependent on demonstrating financial need.
In a similar way, Disabled Adult Children (DAC) benefits provide benefits to those who become disabled before age 22 if a parent of that child is either deceased or receiving disability or retirement benefits. Eligibility is based on the earning record of a parent, so the applicant does not need to demonstrate financial need.
SSI Benefits Also Come in Different Types
The SSI program has separate benefit plans for adults and children. This program is intended to assist those who are blind or disabled meet their basic needs for shelter, clothing, and food.
The process for determining whether a disability is sufficient to qualify for SSI benefits differs for adults and children. For both adults and children seeking SSI benefits, it is necessary to prove that household assets are below a certain level.
How an Attorney Could Help with SSD Benefit Types in Sandy Springs
The Social Security Administration has offices in Atlanta and Decatur where interested Sandy Springs residents may be able to make an appointment for assistance with SSD benefits. Because the process of applying for benefits can be confusing and it is important to properly document evidence of a sufficient disability to qualify, many applicants seeking SSDI and other types of disability benefits choose to work with an experienced Social Security attorney.
The types of SSD benefits in Sandy Springs are subject to change based on amendments to federal laws and regulations, so for the most up-to-date information, it is advisable to check with the SSA or consult a disability advocate who regularly handles SSD cases. If you would like to do so yourself, call today to speak with our intake team about scheduling an initial meeting.
