The maximum monthly Social Security Disability benefit for 2018 is $2,788, up from $2,687 in 2017. This is also the maximum monthly amount people who have reached full retirement age can receive for their monthly Social Security retirement payment.
The disability lawyers at Berger and Green understand how the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines the benefit amount for disability recipients. We can help you apply for disability or handle your appeal if you received a denial. Call us at 412-661-1400 for a free consultation.
Will I Receive the Maximum Disability Amount?
Your monthly disability benefit depends on the amount of taxes you paid into the Social Security system over your working career before you became disabled. You might not receive the full $2,788 each month, but you could qualify for an amount closer to the average monthly disability benefit.
Average Monthly Disability Benefit Amounts
The 2018 average monthly benefit for all disabled workers is $1,197. This is a 2-percent increase from the 2017 average of $1,173. This increase is due to the SSA’s annual cost of living adjustments.
For a free legal consultation, call (412) 661-1400
How Do I Calculate My Monthly Disability Payment?
Social Security is calculated using a detailed formula from the SSA. This formula takes into account different percentages of your income to arrive at a basic benefit amount.
How Do I Qualify for Disability Benefits?
To qualify for benefits, you must have a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability. The organization considers you disabled if:
- Your medical condition prevents you from working as you once did; and
- You cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition; and
- Your disability is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
In addition, you need to meet the technical requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
Qualifying for SSDI
To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked long enough in jobs where Social Security taxes were withheld from your paycheck. Every year that you work and pay Social Security taxes, you receive “work credits,” which help you to qualify for federal benefits.
You can earn a maximum of four credits each year. The number you need to qualify will depend on your age.
Qualifying for SSI
If you do not have an adequate work history, you might qualify for SSI benefits. This program only accepts applicants who meet strict income restrictions and have very few personal assets. Our attorneys can help you determine if you meet these criteria.
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What If I Received a Denial?
Generally, the SSA denies disability benefits because applicants do not provide the evidence needed to prove their condition.
If you were initially denied benefits, it is important not to delay. You have 60 days to appeal your denial. Before you file your request, contact Berger and Green.
We can explain the appeals process to you. We can also request an appeals hearing with an Administrative Law Judge and help you obtain new evidence to strengthen your initial claim.
If the Administrative Law Judge approves you for benefits during this process, you will begin receiving your benefits shortly after the approval. You could also qualify for back benefits that pay you for the time you had to wait to begin receiving your monthly award. We can determine how far back these benefits might go.
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How Can I Get Help With My Disability Application?
The attorneys at Berger and Green have decades of experience handling all aspects of disability claims. We work hard to get our clients the benefits that they deserve. If you want to file a disability claim or the SSA denied your initial application, we can help.
If your disability was the result of someone else’s careless or reckless actions, you might have a valid personal injury case. Our attorneys might be able to help you recover damages in addition to your Social Security benefits.
Contact us today at 412-661-1400 for a free consultation.
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