By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist
Questions and Answers
Question:
I was wounded while on military service overseas. What are the benefits for wounded warriors, and how can I apply?
Answer:
Through the Wounded Warrior program, Social Security expedites processing of disability claims of current military service members or veterans who developed a disability while on active duty on or after October 1, 2001. Service members and veterans who have a Veterans Administration compensation rating of 100%Permanent and Total (P&T) may also receive expedited processing of applications for Social Security disability benefits. Keep in mind, this expedited process applies to only the application for benefits. To be eligible for benefits, you must meet Social Security’s strict definition of “disability,” which means:
• You must be unable to do substantial work because of your medical condition(s).
• Your medical condition(s) must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least 1 year or result in death.
You can apply online at www.ssa.gov/disability or call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Find more information for veterans at www.ssa.gov/people/veterans.
Question:
I am applying for disability benefits. Why do I have to answer questions about my previous job and education?
Answer:
The Disability Determination Services, or DDS, uses information related to your prior work and education levels to supplement the medical information. This helps DDS to determine how your conditions relate to your past relevant work. For more information on the disability process, visit www.ssa.gov/disability.
Question:
I’ve read there is a 5-month waiting period before my Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments start. Are there any exceptions to this waiting period? Can I receive SSI during this waiting period?
Answer:
The 5-month waiting period is waived for people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or for those applying for expedited reinstatement of SSDI benefits. You may be able to receive SSI payments if you have met Social Security’s strict definition of disability and meet the income and resource requirements of the SSI program. For more information regarding income and resource requirements of the SSI program, visit www.ssa.gov/ssi.
Question:
When a person who has worked and paid Social Security taxes dies, are benefits payable on that person’s record?
Answer:
Social Security survivors benefits can be paid to:
• A surviving spouse—unreduced benefits at full retirement age, or reduced benefits as early as age 60.
• A surviving spouse with a disability—as early as age 50.
• A surviving spouse at any age if they take care of the deceased’s child who is under age 16 or has a disability and is receiving Social Security benefits.
• Unmarried children under 18 or up to age 19 if they are attending high school full time. Under certain circumstances, benefits can be paid to stepchildren, grandchildren, step-grandchildren, or adopted children.
• Children at any age who developed a disability before age 22 and continue to have a disability.
• Dependent parents age 62 or older.
Even if you are divorced, you still may be eligible for survivorsbenefits. For more information, go to www.ssa.gov.
Hillary Hatch is the Public Affairs Specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at hillary.hatch@ssa.gov