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Recently, President Barack Obama signed into law a budget deal that extends Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) funding, ending concerns that the program would run out of money by late 2016.
Had Congress not reached the bipartisan budget deal, it could have led to a cut in SSDI benefits for recipients. The deal will allow the program to operate by reallocating funds between the Old Age and Survivors and Disability Insurance Trust. It is expected to extend funding for SSDI through payroll taxes for the 2016, 2017 and 2018 fiscal years.
The bill also directs funds to be allocated to investigate instances of potential SSDI fraud, which many advocates note is rare. Following its approval by Obama, the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR) released a statement supporting the bill.
“Today, President Obama signed into law a budget deal that protects those who, due to debilitating impairments, like spinal cord injuries, kidney failure, or advanced or terminal cancer, depend on the [SSDI] program to help them support themselves and their families,” the NOSSCR said. “This is good news for the millions of individuals and families who rely on the disability benefits they have earned and for which they qualify.”
How Do I Qualify For SSDI? Can I Collect Workers’ Compensation at the Same Time?
We are happy that legislation has been approved extending SSDI funding. The program provides vital financial support to millions of disabled Americans.
To collect SSDI, you need to have earned credits through your employment history. Benefits are paid to people who cannot work because they have a medical condition expected to last at least one year or could result in death.
Some people who suffer devastating injuries on the job are entitled to collect SSDI benefits and/or workers’ compensation benefits, although collecting both forms of compensation at the same time can result in disparities in the money you can receive.
The SSDI application and appeals process can be incredibly confusing (the overwhelming majority of initial claims are denied), so you may want to seek legal guidance prior to beginning. Additionally, this may help you reduce the financial consequences of collecting various benefits at the same time, as you may be able to maximize the benefits available to you.