At Gold Country, we understand how overwhelming and confusing the disability benefits process can be. That’s why we’re here to help guide you through it every step of the way. As a disability attorney in California, we specialize in helping clients obtain the benefits they deserve.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is the most widely available source of disability benefits. It is a federally funded program that provides monthly payments to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. In order to qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a certain number of years.
If you don’t have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This program provides monthly payments to individuals with limited income and resources who are disabled or elderly. The medical requirements for SSI are the same as those for SSDI, but the income and resource limits are much lower.
However, simply having a disability is not enough to qualify for either program. You must also show that your disability prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). SGA is defined as the ability to earn a certain amount of money per month. In 2021, the SGA limit is $1,310 for non-blind individuals and $2,190 for blind individuals.
In addition to the Social Security programs, there are other disability programs that may be available to you depending on your circumstances. These include:
- State Disability Insurance (SDI): This program provides short-term benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness or injury. It is funded through payroll deductions and administered by the State of California.
- Workers’ Compensation: If you were injured on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help cover medical expenses and lost wages.
- Veterans’ Benefits: If you are a veteran with a service-connected disability, you may be eligible for disability compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
At Gold Country, we can help you navigate the complex disability benefits process and determine which programs you may be eligible for. We will work with you to gather the necessary medical evidence and build a strong case for why you should receive benefits.
If you are considering applying for disability benefits or have been denied in the past, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We are here to help you get the benefits you deserve.
