If you need help applying for SSD benefits, our Social Security Disability lawyers want to hear from you. Contact our professional legal staff by calling 615-722-4726 or by completing our free initial consultation form.
What Disability Benefits are Available?
SSD benefits are available to disabled workers and their children, as well as the spouses and family members of deceased SSD recipients. The types of benefits available include:
- Disability Benefits
If you suffer from a disability that leaves you unable to perform the work you used to do for more than 12 months, or if your condition is expected to result in death, you may be eligible for SSD benefits.
- Death Benefits
You may be eligible for death benefits if you’re the surviving family member of a worker who held a job and worked for at least 10 years prior to his or her death. Benefits can be paid in one lump sum or in monthly installments, and the amount paid is based on the Social Security retirement benefits your loved one would have been eligible to receive.
- Spousal Benefits
To receive spousal benefits, you must be a surviving spouse who is at least 62 years old. Exceptions apply if you’re caring for a disabled child or a child under the age of 16. If you’re divorced, you may also be eligible for benefits if you were married to someone eligible for SSD benefits for at least 10 years, you’re age 62 or older, and you’re currently unmarried.
- Child Benefits
If you’re a parent who has worked and paid into Social Security and you’re receiving SSD benefits, your child may also be eligible for additional benefits. And if you’re a widow or widower receiving death benefits, your child may qualify for benefits in addition to the benefits you’re receiving.
- Medicare
If you’re younger than age 65 and you’ve been approved for SSD benefits, you may be eligible for Medicare. In most cases, you must have been receiving SSD benefits for at least 24 months, although exceptions apply for those suffering from conditions such as Lou Gehrig’s disease (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), kidney failure, or renal disease.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Unlike SSD, this program provides disability benefits based on financial need—regardless of your prior employment. Children also can be eligible for disability benefits under the SSI program if certain criteria are met.
Social Security Work Incentives
Several incentives offered by the SSA may allow you to get back to work while receiving benefits, including the optional Ticket to Work program. Ticket to Work can help you get vocational services and job training from SSA-approved employers–referred to as employment networks (ENs)–while receiving SSD benefits with Medicare or SSI benefits with Medicaid.
When you receive employment support services from an EN, you will continue receiving benefits and medical coverage unless your wages surpass the income limits for the type of benefits you’re receiving. Visit the SSA’s Work Site to search for a list of ENs in Tennessee.
Get the Help You Need
At Ponce Law, we can represent anyone in Tennessee, regardless of their financial situation. So don’t risk losing the benefits you’re owed. Contact our Social Security Disability attorneys today, and get the professional legal representation you deserve.
