Many Salisbury residents depend on the income they receive through Social Security Disability to maintain a stable quality of life. Suffering an injury or living with a disability can have a significant financial impact without these needed benefits. So, how long does Social Security Disability last in North Carolina?
What Is Social Security Disability?
Social Security Disability is a federal program aimed at providing financial assistance to those who are unable to work due to a long-term disability. The Social Security Administration administers two types of benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
What Is the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?
Social Security Disability Income provides monthly benefits to disabled individuals who can no longer work due to a disabling condition. To be eligible, you must have a previous work history.
Supplemental Security Income provides assistance to individuals with both limited income and resources. To be eligible, you must demonstrate financial need rather than work history. SSI is designed for low-income individuals with disabilities.
This crucial safety net helps cover living expenses, basic needs, and medical costs and alleviates financial stress during challenging times, especially for those with dependents. In order to continue offering benefits, the Social Security Administration conducts regularly scheduled Continuing Disability Reviews.
What Are Continuing Disability Reviews?
Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) are periodic evaluations conducted by the Social Security Administration. The purpose of CDRs is to assess whether beneficiaries continue to meet the eligibility criteria for disability.
When Do Continuing Disability Reviews Take Place?
There are three levels of expectation for medical improvement, which determines the frequency of these assessments:
- Medical improvement expected. If improvement is expected, a review will occur within six to 18 months.
- Medical improvement possible. If improvement is possible but not necessarily expected, reviews will occur every three years.
- Medical improvement not expected. If improvement is not expected, reviews will only occur every seven years.
What Factors Influence How Long Disability Lasts?
During a CDR, the Social Security Administration will examine several factors to review the beneficiary’s condition. These include their:
- Medical condition. The disability itself plays a crucial role in eligibility. If the beneficiary’s condition worsens or remains at a stable but severe level, then the benefit period may be extended. If conditions improve, benefits may eventually cease.
- Work activity. Engaging in work activities that exceed the threshold of substantial gainful activity (SGA) can lead to benefits ending. There is a trial work period in which beneficiaries can test their ability to work without the threat of immediately losing benefits. This incentivizes workers to attempt to work again.
- Compliance. Individuals who don’t comply with all requirements, including adhering to all prescribed medical treatments, can risk having their benefits terminated. It is essential to pursue all avenues of recovery and continue to meet the terms of the benefits.
When Should I Contact an Attorney?
If you are facing challenges with eligibility, have questions about the legal process, or are feeling overwhelmed, you should contact an attorney for help with your Salisbury Social Security Disability. Your attorney can help at any step of the process, including:
- Before applying – If you are uncertain whether you meet the eligibility requirements or if the nature of your disability is difficult to prove, an attorney can evaluate your situation and help you effectively present your case.
- After a denial – Many Social Security Disability applications are actually denied on the first attempt. Your attorney can help you identify why your application was denied, gather the necessary evidence and documentation, and help you appeal the decision by meeting the appeal deadline.
- During an appeal – Your attorney can ensure that you submit all new evidence correctly and then represent you during the hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. An attorney is crucial for navigating complex legal proceedings and is invaluable when presenting your case, questioning witnesses, and addressing the judge’s concerns.
FAQs
Q: How Long Does Disability Last in North Carolina?
A: In North Carolina, the duration of disability will depend on several key factors. As long as you comply with all requirements, including reporting changes, and remain medically disabled, your Social Security Disability benefits will continue. If your condition improves and you are able to engage in substantial gainful activities (SGA), your benefits may end. The SGA threshold for individuals is $1,550 per month or $2,590 for blind individuals.
Q: At What Age Does Social Security Disability End?
A: When you reach full retirement age, your Social Security Disability income will automatically convert to regular retirement benefits. This conversion does not usually alter the amount you receive. The full retirement age can vary for each individual. Generally, the age is 67 for those born after 1960, but individuals can elect to delay retirement until age 70 to increase the amount of benefits received.
Q: Does Social Security Disability Ever Expire?
A: Social Security Disability does not have a predetermined expiration date. Instead, these benefits remain for as long as you are eligible for them. There are, however, certain circumstances that would cause your benefits to terminate or cease. This includes a return to work or other substantial gainful activity, reaching the full retirement age, or violating the conditions of benefits, such as through failure to cooperate, incarceration, or fraud.
Q: What Year Will Social Security Disability Run Out?
A: Based on current laws and economic assumptions, the Disability Insurance Trust Fund is projected to run out in 2098. This projection is subject to changes in the economy and demographics or to actions by the legislature. Under current conditions, however, the fund should remain solvent until that year.
While the financial health of the program has been a topic of ongoing concern, regular assessments and flexibility in policy adjustments should ensure the program’s long-term viability.
Talk With a Qualified Salisbury Social Security Disability Attorney Today
Discussing your disability case early with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney can save you time, reduce potential errors, and provide the greatest chance of securing the benefits you need to live a fulfilling life. Contact M. Reid Acree, Jr., Attorney at Law, P.A. today to learn about your options and get the necessary guidance to successfully apply for your disability income.