Within the types of benefits and checks provided by the Social Security Administration, United States citizens are eligible for several different payments. The retirement benefit is the most common subsidy among Americans, but there is also the disability pension. To find out if we are eligible for the disability subsidy, we must check certain requirements. Not all Americans with a disability can apply for this payment, as there are obligations.
If you are thinking that you can apply for the Social Security disability pension, you should make sure first. In case you are in doubt as to whether you are eligible to receive these checks, check the requirements. However, thanks to the Social Security Administration’s new website, applying for any of the benefits is a simple task. But first you can check the requirements to find out in advance if you can start with the procedure.
What is the key requirement for claiming Social Security disability benefits?
As stated by the United States Government through the Social Security website, the definition of disability is “The law defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”
So, this means that if you are unable to perform your usual work because of physical or mental problems, you have a disability. This is how you can receive the checks. It happens as long as you apply on time and the Social Security Administration accepts your application.
What groups of people can apply for a disability pension?
Not all people who have a disability can apply for the benefit. To qualify for a Social Security disability check, you must belong to one of three groups:
- A disabled insured worker less than full retirement age.
- An individual disabled since childhood (before age 22) who is a dependent of a parent entitled to title II disability or retirement benefits or was a dependent of a deceased insured parent.
- A disabled widow or widower, age 50-60 if the deceased spouse was insured under Social Security.
So if you meet one of these requirements and have all the necessary documentation, you can begin the process of applying for a disability pension. Remember that through the Social Security website you can see all the requirements. You can also apply for benefits and submit the necessary documentation.