Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed to aid individuals who can’t work because of a disability. To be eligible, you must have contributed to the system and your disability must be expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal. Essentially, SSDI is not designed for short-term disabilities.
There might be instances where you’re granted disability benefits, and then manage to resume some work due to an improvement in your health. However, if your health deteriorates, leaving you unable to work again, it’s possible to reinstate your SSDI benefits. An SSDI benefits attorney can guide you through this process. Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542.
Reapplying for SSDI When Health Deteriorates
If your disability benefits have been discontinued, you’ll need to reapply for SSDI based on your present disability. This is mandatory even if your current health condition is the same as the one that initially made you eligible for benefits. In such cases, you won’t have to go through the standard 5-month waiting period before your disability payments are processed. While it might still take months to process your application, upon approval, there won’t be any delay to receive your benefits.
Expedited Reinstatement of Benefits
You might be eligible for swift reinstatement of your benefits if your SSDI was terminated due to excessive income from returning to work. With expedited reinstatement, there’s no need to reapply, typically enabling you to receive benefits faster than through a new application. To qualify, your benefits must have been discontinued because your income exceeded the allowable limit, known as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
If your earnings dip below the SGA threshold within five years of benefits termination, reinstatement can be activated through this process. Moreover, you must be eligible for SSDI based on the same disability as before, and your health condition should not have improved since your initial SSDI application.
Navigating the SSDI Application Process
The process of applying for SSDI benefits, including reapplication, can be complex. Having an SSDI benefits attorney on your side can help streamline the process. Your lawyer can assist with the initial application, clarify how SGA operates, and aid in expedited reinstatement should you need to return to disability benefits after a break.
At PLBH, we’re committed to representing individuals unable to work due to disability. We leverage our expertise and familiarity with the process to help our clients secure the benefits they’re legally entitled to. To learn more or to book a consultation with our team, reach out to us at (800) 435-7542.