Just because you are not able to work, doesn’t mean your bills stop piling up. It would help if you found a way to cover at least part of your lost income. Fortunately, there are some benefits available for people who can’t work. You just need to know where to look and how to apply.
Social Security Disability Insurance
This program is managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments are available for people who have a disabling condition. However, you must have accumulated enough work credits to qualify for benefits. The SSA has a sliding scale based on age and years worked.
Applying for benefits can be frustrating. Many first-time applicants are denied, but there is an appeal process.
Some SSDI recipients may be eligible to receive Medicare also.
Supplemental Security Income
The SSA also manages this program, commonly known as SSI. To qualify for SSI, you must have a disability or be over a certain age. However, unlike SSDI, you do not need work credits to qualify. Instead, SSI is a needs-based program. Applicants with income and resources over the current limits may not qualify. The process may sound complicated, but people who can’t work may need SSI to supplement other benefits.
State Disability Insurance
California residents may apply for the California State Disability Insurance (SDI) program. If qualified, people may receive short-term Disability Insurance (DI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) wage replacement benefits.
People may receive DI benefits because of non-work-related injuries or illness, pregnancy, or childbirth. You may be eligible for PFL after childbirth or to take care of a family member who is seriously ill.
CalFresh
People whose income meets federal limits – and people who currently receive SSI – can apply for CalFresh. This benefit helps people buy food for their families. Some people may refer to this program as food stamps or SNAP.
Private Insurance
If your disability began while you were working, check with your employer. You may have access to short-term or long-term disability insurance. Your employer may have provided this benefit, or you may have paid for it through an automatic payroll deduction.
Learn More About Benefits for People Who Can’t Work
Talk to an attorney who has helped many clients get the disability benefits they need.
The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have the experience and ability to take on your case. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. We assist clients throughout Southern California from our home office in Anaheim.
