Noteboom The Law Firm

Consider Both Long-Term Disability and SSDI

You probably already know that if you have an injury or disability that does not allow you to work, you should apply for Social Security disability, or SSDI. This way you can get a check every month that helps you survive financially since you cannot work a regular job. However, you might have also heard of long-term disability and wonder how the two differ.

Some companies that have particularly high injury rates may offer their own disability plan, which is also referred to as LTD. However, if your job does not offer such a plan, or perhaps you are out of a job, you can apply for an LTD plan on your own. It is similar to the benefits offered by SSDI, right down to the fact that you will likely need the help of a lawyer to get your rightful benefits.

It is often smart to apply for both of these programs. If you qualify for one first, you could start receiving payments from that program while you wait to hear about the decision regarding the other program. If you are accepted to both programs, your payment from each one will be lowered until they add up to about what you were receiving from just one. Thus, you have nothing to lose by applying to both.

Perhaps you are not sure which program to apply to first. In many cases, it is advised that you submit an application to Social Security disability first. This is because it has been found that if you qualify for SSDI benefits, you are more likely to also be eligible for long-term disability payments. Most likely, if the government agrees that you are in fact disabled, companies that offer long-term disability benefits are typically more willing to accept your claim and begin offering you benefits.

Whether you decide to apply for one program or both, you should enlist a Social Security Disability lawyer to help you get started. An experienced attorney can let you know your chances of qualifying for one or both disability programs.

If you or your loved one are suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The disability lawyers at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.