SSD Benefits Payments in Altoona

After you receive approval for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, your next questions are usually practical: How much will you receive each month, and when will the money arrive? If you have concerns about your SSD benefit payments, our Altoona attorneys can explain what to expect.

Two federal programs provide Social Security disability benefits. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) rewards years of paying into the system, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) helps people with limited income and resources. The government sets your payment depending on which program you qualify for. At Berger and Green, a lawyer from our team can explain the details and answer your questions about every aspect of the application process, as well as appealing a denied claim, if required.

How Does The SSA Set Your Payment Amount?

Your monthly benefit allowance depends on which Social Security disability programs you qualify for in Altoona. The SSA ties your SSDI benefits to your employment history and taxable earnings. Under 42 U.S.C. § 415, the government calculates your benefits based on your average lifetime earnings, so people who earned and contributed more over their career will typically receive higher payments.

SSI eligibility depends on financial need, not prior employment. Several factors can affect the amount you receive:

• Which program you qualify for
• Your lifetime earnings record, for SSDI
• Your income and resources, for SSI
• Whether family members also draw benefits on your earnings record
• Other public benefits you already receive
• The yearly cost-of-living adjustment (COLA)

Because the rules for SSD benefit payments can change from year to year, our lawyers help you determine how the current figures apply to your situation.

Does Your Monthly Benefit Change Each Year?

Your payment amount is not necessarily fixed. Each year, the SSA reviews the cost of living and may apply an adjustment to disability benefit payments. The yearly COLA helps your benefits increase with inflation.

The size of the adjustment changes each year depending on economic conditions. When a COLA takes effect, it usually raises your monthly SSD payment automatically without any action from you. Our Altoona lawyers can answer any questions you have about your Social Security disability benefits.

Health Coverage With SSD Benefits

SSD benefits often come with health coverage, which may be just as valuable as your monthly benefits check. If you receive SSDI, you typically become eligible for Medicare after 24 months of receiving benefits. If you receive SSI, you usually qualify for Medicaid, which can help cover your medical care. These programs can be a significant help when you have ongoing health needs.

Receiving Your SSD Benefit Payments

Here is what to know about how your monthly benefits are paid:

• Payments arrive once a month
• You receive payments by direct deposit or a prepaid debit card
• SSDI payments usually arrive on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of the month, based on your birth date
• SSI is usually paid on the 1st of the month, or earlier if the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday
• If you are approved, you may receive back pay for months you were eligible while your claim was pending
• Medicare Part B premiums are usually deducted from your monthly SSDI payment
• You can update your payment information through your my Social Security account or by contacting the SSA

Berger and Green attorneys can help you understand your benefit payments, including back pay and when monthly payments begin.