The Social Security Administration (“SSA”) may affect your life from birth to death. Along the way, you will need to get a social security number. If you or a loved one become disabled, you may look to the Social Security Administration for assistance. Your employers will deduct and submit taxes related to Social Security retirement and Social Security Disability Insurance (“SSDI”) benefits. When it comes time to receive payments from the SSA, will you know the difference between Social Security payments and SSDI?
The Purpose of the Payments
Most American workers have paid into the Social Security system. In fact, Social Security represents a major part of retirement planning for many workers. Deductions from employee paychecks also count toward the SSDI program.
The SSA is the source of both retirement and disability benefits. However, the reason the payments are made is very different.
- Social Security retirement payments generally are made to people who reach their full retirement age. This age ranges from 66 to 67. It is also possible to begin receiving payments as early as age 62, with a reduction in total benefits.
- SSDI payments are made to people with disability that prevents them from working. Families of SSDI recipients may also be eligible for SSDI benefits.
SSDI benefits typically convert to retirement benefits when the recipient reaches retirement age.
The Timing of the Payments
As noted above, people may elect to begin receiving Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. When someone waits to collect benefits, he or she usually will receive higher monthly benefits.
SSDI payments are not strictly tied to the applicant’s age. However, applications are analyzed based on the applicant’s medical condition and the number of work credits they have accumulated. Younger workers are not required to have earned the same number of work credits as an older person.
Do You or Someone You Know Need to Apply for Disability?
Get the help of an experienced Social Security attorney. The Social Security Disability Insurance application process can be long and frustrating. You need someone on your side who understands the system.
The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have helped many clients receive the disability benefits they deserve. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. Though our office is located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
