Information About Available Social Security Disability Benefits

Several levels of benefits are available through the Social Security Administration (SSA). These include:

Social Security Disability (SSDI) Benefits For Qualifying Disabilities

Generally, if you have paid into the federal Social Security Disability Insurance system through payroll deduction or direct payments during the previous 10 years but can no longer work because of your disability, you may be eligible for monthly benefits. The amount you receive will be based on the amount you have paid into the system. You cannot begin receiving benefits until you have been unable to work for 12 months because of your disability. However, do not wait 12 months before filing your initial claim. You will want to be approved to start receiving benefits as soon as possible after qualifying. Depending upon your circumstances, your family may also be eligible to receive benefits because of your disability.

Supplemental Security Income

If you have not earned enough credits in the last 10 years but cannot work because of your disability, you may be entitled to SSI monthly benefits depending on your assets and household income. The definition of disability is the same for both SSDI and SSI. Unlike SSDI, in order to get SSI you have to qualify financially as it is a need based benefit. SSI benefits are paid on the month after the date of application and do not require the 5 month waiting period required for SSDI.

Benefits For Surviving Spouses

Following the death of a qualifying spouse, the surviving husband or wife may be eligible to receive a percentage of the deceased’s benefits. To qualify for survivor benefits, you:

• Must be at least 60 years old
• May be under 60 if you are the primary caretaker of a disabled child or a child under age 16
• May be at least 50 years old if you have a qualifying disability
• Must demonstrate financial dependence on your deceased spouse’s benefits

Call Our Dearborn And Detroit Social Security Disability Attorneys

If you live in Michigan and are interested in learning more about ways to qualify for Social Security Disability, family or survivor benefits, talk to a lawyer at Miller Cohen, P.L.C. We have offices in Dearborn and Detroit to serve you better. Call us toll-free at  or use our convenient email contact form to arrange an opportunity to meet with one of our experienced Social Security Disability attorneys today.