Can I Receive Social Security And Disability at the Same Time?

Our Pasco County disability attorney Joseph M. Rooth explains what you need to know about receiving both Social Security and long term disability (LTD) benefits.

When on the job accidents or occupational injuries happen, it can impact your ability to work now and for years to come. Disability benefits for Pasco County workers act as a safety net in this situation, providing you with a steady income. Our Pasco County disability attorney explains how to obtain disability benefits through the Social Security Administration and through long term disability policies your employer has in place.

Getting Social Security and Long-Term Disability Benefits

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that close to half of all private and public employees have some type of long-term disability (LTD) insurance coverage in place. These benefits are often included as part of your overall compensation package.

In addition to long term disability insurance, you may also be entitled to Social Security disability benefits. These are based on both your work history and whether you have a qualifying condition. Both types of benefits share some key factors in common:

• They protect you in the event of a chronic health condition, serious illness, or accidental injuries;
• You may be eligible if your condition prevents you from working for a year or more;
• They generally reimburse up to two thirds of lost income.

A common question we hear from clients concerns whether you may be entitled to both Social Security and disability insurance benefits at the same time. The short answer is yes. In fact, most long-term disability insurers require you to apply for Social Security disability benefits before they will approve your claim.

Collecting Social Security and Disability Benefits at the Same Time

If you suffer a condition that has left you disabled or is likely to do so in the future, it is important to take the following steps:

• Review employer-provided insurance coverage. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) is a federal law that provides important protections in this situation, requiring your employer to provide copies of all insurance policy documents, free of charge and at your request. Review the summary of benefits, paying close attention to the section dealing with other types of insurance.
• Determine your eligibility for Social Security disability. Under Social Security Administration guidelines, you must have worked recently, have a qualifying condition, and earned enough work credits.

If you are eligible, you will want to file for both types of benefits. Generally, your long term disability insurer will review the amount you receive from Social Security, then deduct that portion from the benefit amount they provide.

Request a Consultation With Our Pasco County Disability Attorney

Disability benefits help to provide a steady income if you are unable to work. For help in getting the maximum amount you are entitled to discuss your option with attorney Joseph M. Rooth. To request a consultation, call 727-849-3400 or contact our Pasco County disability attorney online today.