What is Social Security Disability and what are the benefits?

Social Security Disability (SSD) is a benefit/payment to a "disabled" person who has had a reasonably stable work history. Typically, this requires a person to have been gainfully employed 5 out of the last 10 years before they became "disabled".

What benefits are payable under the Social Security Disability Act?

• A monthly compensation (money) payment. That amount that you may be entitled to receive is based on how much you worked and earned in the past.
• Medicare coverage. After a period of time after you have been found "disabled", you will become eligible for Medicare coverage. Medicare coverage will begin two years after you have been found entitled to social security disability benefits. The Medicare coverage will pay for medical treatment.
• Prescription coverage. Beginning January 1, 2006, Medicare has offered a prescription drug coverage plan to people entitled to social security disability benefits. The disabled person has the right to choose what plan best suits their needs for prescription coverage.

How do I know if I am "disabled" and entitled to social security disability benefits?

Under the Social Security Act, "disability" means the "inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months. Many people are not sure whether their medical or mental condition meets this definition of "disability". If a person feels that he or she is "disabled" and is not going to be able to return to work in the future, that person should file for social security disability benefits. Often people are denied at the initial application phase. If that occurs, the individual should consult an attorney familiar with social security disability to get an opinion as to the chances of success on an appeal.