Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an essential program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a severe physical or mental condition. While SSDI can be a lifeline for many, the process of applying for benefits can be confusing and fraught with misconceptions. Understanding what Social Security disability benefits are really about, as well as separating fact from fiction, is crucial for anyone considering applying for SSDI or trying to help someone else navigate the process.

In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about Social Security Disability Benefits to help clear up confusion and provide accurate, helpful information.

Myth 1: You Have to Be “Completely Disabled” to Qualify for SSDI

One of the most prevalent myths about Social Security Disability benefits is that you must be “completely disabled” to qualify. In reality, the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability much more specifically. The SSA’s guidelines are based on whether your medical condition prevents you from doing “substantial gainful activity” (SGA), which is defined as earning above a certain income level.

For 2023, if you are earning more than $1,470 per month (or $2,460 if you’re blind), you generally won’t qualify for SSDI benefits because the SSA assumes you can still work. However, you don’t need to be completely unable to move or function in every aspect of your life. If your condition limits your ability to work in your previous job or any other job that you could reasonably perform, you might still be eligible.

Myth 2: If You Get SSDI, You’ll Get Rich

Another common misconception is that Social Security Disability benefits are a generous source of income, allowing people to live comfortably without working. The truth is, SSDI benefits typically replace only a portion of your prior income, and many recipients find it challenging to live solely on these payments.

The amount you receive in SSDI benefits depends on your work history and how much you paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes during your career. The SSA uses a formula to calculate benefits, and while some people may receive higher amounts due to a long or high-paying work history, the average SSDI benefit in 2023 is around $1,300 per month. For many, this isn’t enough to cover all living expenses, especially if you have additional health-related costs.

Myth 3: You Can’t Work While Receiving SSDI Benefits

Many people believe that if they receive Social Security Disability benefits, they are completely prohibited from working. While it is true that earning over a certain amount can affect your eligibility, the SSA actually allows recipients to work under certain conditions, especially as part of a program designed to help you transition back into the workforce.

The Ticket to Work program is designed to encourage SSDI recipients to try working again without losing their benefits immediately. If you work and earn above the SGA threshold for a trial period (usually nine months), your benefits may continue. After this period, if you are still unable to earn at a level that supports full-time work, your SSDI benefits may be reinstated.

Additionally, the SSA offers work incentives, such as continuing health care coverage, which may help ease the transition into work. However, it’s important to report any changes in your work status to the SSA to avoid unintentional overpayments or benefit stoppage.

Myth 4: If You’re Denied, It’s Impossible to Get Approved

Many individuals are discouraged when they are initially denied SSDI benefits, believing that if they don’t get approved on the first try, they will never be successful. However, the initial denial is common and not a reflection of whether you ultimately qualify for benefits.

It’s estimated that around 60-70% of first-time applicants are denied, but that doesn’t mean the process is over. The key to getting approved often lies in the appeals process. Most applicants who are denied SSDI benefits are successful on appeal, particularly if they have solid medical evidence to support their claim. The appeal process involves multiple stages, including reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, and possibly a review by the Appeals Council.

Additionally, working with an attorney or advocate who specializes in Social Security Disability claims can dramatically increase your chances of success during the appeal process.

Myth 5: Social Security Disability Benefits Are for Life

Another myth is that once you are approved for SSDI, you’ll receive benefits for the rest of your life. In reality, Social Security Disability benefits are subject to ongoing reviews. While some individuals may remain permanently disabled and continue to receive benefits indefinitely, the SSA routinely conducts medical reviews to determine whether beneficiaries still meet the disability criteria.

The frequency of these reviews depends on the nature of your disability. For example, if your condition is expected to improve, the SSA may review your case more frequently. If your condition is expected to last for a long time or be permanent, your review may happen less often. If your condition improves to the point where you can work again, your benefits may be reduced or stopped.

Myth 6: You Can’t Get SSDI If You Have a Mental Health Condition

Some individuals assume that Social Security Disability benefits are only for people with physical disabilities, but this is not true. The SSA recognizes mental health conditions as valid reasons for disability claims. In fact, mental health conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD can qualify for SSDI benefits if they meet the SSA’s criteria for severity and limitation.

The key factor in these cases is whether the mental health condition significantly impairs your ability to function in daily life or work. If you have a documented mental health disorder that prevents you from working, you may still be eligible for benefits.

Myth 7: You Have to Wait for Years to Get SSDI Benefits

Many people believe that applying for SSDI benefits is a lengthy and drawn-out process. While it’s true that the initial application and appeals process can take time, the timeline for receiving benefits varies greatly depending on individual circumstances. In some cases, people are approved relatively quickly, especially if they have a severe, well-documented medical condition that clearly meets SSA criteria.

In addition, expedited approval processes are available for those with terminal conditions or specific medical conditions that qualify under SSA’s Compassionate Allowance list. In these cases, benefits can be approved much faster than the standard timeline.

Conclusion

The world of Social Security Disability benefits can be confusing, and there are many myths that circulate about the program. By understanding the facts about SSDI, you can make more informed decisions about whether you qualify for benefits and how to navigate the application process. If you’re considering applying for SSDI, or if you’ve been denied and are looking to appeal, it’s always a good idea to seek expert advice, such as from a disability attorney, to help you through the complex process.

By debunking these myths, we hope to clear up some of the confusion and provide clarity on how Social Security Disability benefits can serve as a critical support system for those who are truly unable to work due to illness or injury.

Navigating the intricacies of Social Security Disability benefits can be made more manageable with the assistance of the expert North Carolina disability specialists, Golson, McCracken Inc. Our team specializes in advocating for the rights of the disabled and offers our clients comprehensive support throughout the application and appeals process.

Golson, McCracken Inc. provides services across North Carolina including Raleigh, Sanford, Mebane, Greensboro, and Charlotte. If you suffer from a disability in North Carolina, contact North Carolina SSDI and SSI advocate Golson, McCracken Inc. to enhance your chances of successfully securing the benefits you need.