Filing for Social Security Disability benefits can be a daunting process Educating yourself about the process is wise, regardless if you plan to hire a social security lawyer or do it yourself. The following are frequently asked questions about applying for Social Security Disability benefits.
Q: I am 10 percent disabled through workers compensation. Can I get Social Security benefits?
A: If you receive workers compensation benefits, you are still eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits. You are entitled to collect benefits from both, but cannot exceed 80 percent of your estimated annual income average. The average income of every applicant is different. Because of that, some applicants are eligible to receive only partial Social Security disability benefits, while others may be eligible for full benefits. If your combined workers compensation and social security benefits exceed that 80 percent maximum, your social security benefits will be reduced to meet that limit. Say that your monthly average income was $5000, your 80 percent maximum monthly cap would be $4000. You may be eligible for $2500 per month in Social Security Disability, but already receive $2500 each month in workers compensation. Your Social Security benefits would be reduced to $1500 to meet your cap of $4000.
Consider consulting a social security lawyer or a Social Security representative, if any of your current workers compensation benefits are increased, reduced, or paid via one large sum (instead of in installments). Any changes to your workers compensation can affect your social security benefits.
Q: Will my assets affect my receiving SS benefits?
A: The disability benefits awarded to you under Social Security should not be influenced by your assets. Disability benefits are contingent upon what you put into Social Security when you were working and the duration of your tenure in the workforce. It is a benefit that is earned. You should receive the same amount of benefits, regardless of your assets. If, however, you are applying for the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, your assets will affect those benefits. SSI benefits are awarded based on need, so any income and assets you have must be considered.
A social security lawyer may be a good resource, if you are unclear about the affect your particular assets may have on your SSD or SSI benefits.
Q: Is it a requirement for me to see one of the Social Security doctors?
A: Not necessarily. The disability examiner for your case may not feel he has enough background on your case and wishes for you to undergo a consultative exam (CE.) If, for example, your doctor cannot provide many details about your condition or you have not received recent care for your treatment, your disability examiner may request a consultative examination. The medical specialist that provides the CE will be able to provide an updated profile of your condition. The CE will be looked at in concert with your other medical records. The Social Security Administration will pay for your CE. Contact your case representative, if you feel you should not have to go through another exam. If you feel like you have been unfairly subjected to multiple examinations, contacting a social security lawyer might provide some insight into how and why certain examinations may or may not be needed.

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by: albert.tobega
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More sites related to social security disability, visit HillandPonton.com.

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