Can you apply for disability if you receive social security? This is a common question among individuals who are currently receiving Social Security benefits. The answer is both yes and no, depending on the type of Social Security benefits you are receiving and the specific circumstances of your situation. In this article, we will explore the different types of Social Security benefits, the eligibility criteria for applying for disability, and the potential impact of applying for disability on your existing Social Security benefits.
Social Security benefits are designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to age, disability, or other qualifying circumstances. There are several types of Social Security benefits, including:
1. Retirement benefits: These are paid to individuals who have reached the age of 62 or are at least 60 and have a certain number of work credits.
2. Disability benefits: These are paid to individuals who are disabled and unable to work due to a medical condition that is expected to last at least a year or result in death.
3. Survivors benefits: These are paid to the surviving spouse, children, or other eligible family members of a deceased worker.
If you are receiving Social Security retirement or survivors benefits, you may still be eligible to apply for disability benefits. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
1. The medical condition: Your medical condition must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means that you must have a severe medical condition that significantly limits your ability to perform basic work activities, such as walking, standing, sitting, and lifting.
2. The duration of the condition: Your medical condition must be expected to last at least a year or result in death. Temporary conditions or those that are expected to improve within a year are not considered disabling.
3. The impact on your work: Your medical condition must prevent you from performing the type of work you did before or any other type of work that exists in the national economy.
If you are eligible to apply for disability benefits while receiving Social Security retirement or survivors benefits, there are a few potential impacts to consider:
1. The amount of your benefits: If you are approved for disability benefits, your Social Security retirement or survivors benefits may be reduced. This is because the SSA considers your disability benefits as a supplement to your existing benefits.
2. The duration of your benefits: If you are approved for disability benefits, your benefits will continue as long as you remain disabled and meet the SSA’s eligibility requirements.
3. The potential for reapplication: If your medical condition improves and you are able to return to work, you may need to reapply for Social Security benefits.
In conclusion, if you are receiving Social Security retirement or survivors benefits, you can still apply for disability benefits, but there are certain eligibility requirements and potential impacts to consider. It is important to consult with a Social Security attorney or a disability advocate to ensure that you understand the process and the potential consequences of applying for disability benefits.
