8.3.3 SS Disability Benefits
It is very difficult to qualify for Social Security disability benefits. The disabled worker must first fit the definition of disability according to the Social Security Department.
- How does the Social Security Department define disability?
In addition, the disability must be the result of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to last at least 12 months or to result in an earlier death.
Benefits are eligible to begin after a waiting period of five consecutive months (150 days) and the person must remain disabled during that time. Benefits can be paid retroactively up to 12 months (minus the waiting period).
If a worker becomes disabled before retirement age, he becomes eligible for the PIA benefits earned at the time of disability with no reduction. If the worker becomes disabled after age 63 and had been receiving reduced retirement benefits, his disability benefits would be reduced considering the retirement benefits already received.
The determination of disability for Social Security purposes is usually made by a government agency. In addition to meeting the definition of disabled, the individual must have earned a certain minimum number of quarters of coverage under Social Security.
A five-month waiting period is required before an individual will qualify for benefits, during which time he must remain disabled. No second five-month waiting period is required if the disabled worker recovers and then is disabled again within five years.
Disabled Worker's Benefit
The disabled worker is entitled to a monthly benefit equal to his/her PIA at the time the disability occurred. If the disability occurred after age 63 and the worker had been receiving a reduced retirement benefit, the disability benefits will be reduced to take into account the retirement benefits already received.
Spousal Benefits
- At FRA - 50% of the worker's PIA
- At age 62 - Permanently reduced benefits
- Regardless of age with a child under age 16 (or age 22 if disabled) who was a dependent of the deceased worker - 50% benefit
Child's Benefit
- Unmarried and under age 18 - 50% of the worker's PIA
- Disabled before age 22 - 50% benefit will continue indefinitely
Maximum Family Benefits
Maximum family benefits apply. The earnings test is also applicable and pertains individually to each family member (see 8.3.2, SS Retirement Benefits, Earnings Test).
