Exploring Disability Benefits Available Through The SSA In Los Angeles, CA

If you’ve suffered for one reason or another and suffered such that you’re now unable to work—either temporarily or permanently—you may qualify for financial assistance through the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA offers both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). As much of a relief it may be to hear this, not all disabilities will qualify you.

As such, it’s absolutely vital for you to consult with a skilled Social Security disability attorney in Los Angeles, CA, or anywhere in the state for that matter, to understand your unique case and improve your chances of approval.

While this article is not legal advice, nor does it serve to establish a relationship with a Social Security disability attorney, we at California Disability Law Office want to see you reap all of the benefits you can. That’s why we’ve prepared this article. In it, you’ll get a thorough overview of key things you’ll need to know about the disability claims process, empowering you to maximize all you may be entitled to receive.

The Social Security Administration: The Basics (SSA)

The Social Security Administration is a federal agency. Part of its mission is to facilitate providing benefits to people in need. Workers pay into the system throughout their employment, which later serves as a source of income when they retire. In addition to this, the SSA also offers benefits for individuals unable to work due to disabilities under the Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) Program.

Types Of Disability Benefits

The SSA offers two primary disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is designed for working-age adults who cannot work due to a qualifying disability. To be eligible, you must:

• Be under the age of 65.
• Have a disability recognized by the SSA.
• Be significantly impaired by that condition, to the point of not being able to work.
• Have a prognosis that the disability will last at least one year or result in death.
• Possess a sufficient work history with enough “work credits” from jobs that paid into the SSA system.

SSI assists older adults and individuals with disabilities who have limited income and resources. Eligibility requirements include:

• Being at least 65 years old, blind, or disabled.
• Having limited income and resources.
• Living outside of institutions like hospitals or prisons.

Unlike SSDI, SSI benefits are based solely on financial need rather than work history.

Dependents Benefits

Family members may also qualify for benefits if you are approved for SSDI. These dependents include spouses, ex-spouses, and children under certain conditions:

• Spouses Or Ex-Spouses: Must be at least 62 years old or caring for a child who is under 16 or disabled.
• Divorced Ex-Spouses: Must have been married to the beneficiary for at least 10 years, divorced for at least two years, and not remarried.
• Parents Of Deceased Beneficiaries: Can qualify if they are at least 62 years old and financially dependent on the deceased.

Survivors Benefits

If a spouse who qualified for SSDI passes away, surviving spouses and children may be eligible for survivors’ benefits. Eligibility includes:

• Surviving Spouses: Must be at least 60 years old, disabled and at least 50 years old, or caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child.
• Children: Eligible if they are minors under 18, high school students under 19, or disabled adults who became disabled before age 22.

SSDI Monthly Payments

SSDI benefits are generally paid monthly and are based on your lifetime earnings before your disability. On average, monthly payments range between $800 to $1,800, with the average being around $1,200. Maximum benefits can be as high as $3,000 per month. Payments are calculated based on the income you paid Social Security taxes on over the years.

Medical Benefits

Recipients of SSDI may also qualify for Medicare coverage after 24 months of receiving benefits. For individuals with severe medical conditions, immediate Medicare coverage may be available if the SSA recognizes the condition as eligible.

Disability Benefits For Children And Family

If your household income is negatively affected due to your disability, your children may qualify for financial assistance under your SSDI benefits. Minors (and high school students under 19) or disabled adults with disabilities occurring before age 22 may be eligible for benefits.

Need Help Applying For Benefits In Los Angeles, CA?

Navigating the SSA’s requirements isn’t just confusing—it can be overwhelming. On top of this, any mistakes you make could cost you the precious benefits you deserve. If you or a loved one need SSDI, SSI, or other disability benefits, don’t go through the process alone and put all of this at risk. Attorney Randy Rosenblatt and the team at California Disability Law Office are ready to fight for your rights and maximize your claim. Call us today for a consultation — Existing Clients: (503) 639-6666 | New Clients: (323) 540-5899 . We’ll help you secure the benefits you’re entitled to.