When Should You Consider Applying for Disability (SSDI) Benefits If You’re on Workers’ Compensation?
As we look ahead to 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is gearing up for significant leadership changes. These transitions are more than just a reshuffling of titles—they have the potential to reshape how the agency operates, and many wonder how these changes will shape the disability claims process in the coming years. For millions of Americans who rely on Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, changes at the top can directly influence the efficiency and fairness of the claims process.
Is Your Client Eligible for SSDI?
Not everyone qualifies for SSDI, so it’s important to know if a potential applicant meets the criteria:
Disability is Severe
SSDI is for people with medical conditions that prevent them from working for at least 12 months or are expected to result in death. If the workplace injury is long-term or permanent, the applicant may qualify.
Enough Work History
To be eligible, they must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. This means earning enough “work credits”, which depend on their age and work history.
Already Receiving Workers’ Compensation
Receiving workers’ comp doesn’t disqualify an individual from SSDI, but the two programs interact in specific ways that need to be understood.
At Walker Firm PC, DBA Casa de la Justicia, we specialize in helping clients apply for their monthly disability (SSDI) checks. If you are wondering if your client qualifies, please have them call us at 1 800 454 5454 and our attorneys that specialize in Social Security Disability Benefits can let them know if they qualify in just ten minutes. If they do, we can immediately start helping with the application process.
Why Apply for SSDI?
There are several reasons SSDI might be a good option:
Access to Medicare
Once an individual has been on SSDI for 24 months, they’ll qualify for Medicare, which can be invaluable if they need ongoing medical care.
Long-Term Financial Stability
SSDI provides a steady monthly income that can supplement workers’ compensation benefits, especially if the workers’ comp payments are temporary or a settlement is approaching.
Additional Benefits for Family
If they do qualify for SSDI, their dependents might also be eligible for benefits, helping ease the financial burden on the family.
How SSDI and Workers’ Compensation Work Together
When receiving both workers’ compensation and SSDI, the total amount received is subject to an “offset.” This means:
Combined Benefits Have a Limit
Total monthly benefits from SSDI and workers’ comp cannot exceed 80% of average earnings before an individual becomes disabled. If they do, SSDI payments may be reduced.
Structured Settlements Can Help
If they are or will be receiving a lump-sum workers’ comp settlement, it can be structured in a way that minimizes the impact on their SSDI benefits. We recommend planning ahead with an attorney or financial advisor to determine the best strategy to optimize total benefits.
Need to Keep the SSA Informed
Make sure workers compensation benefits are reported to the Social Security Administration (SSA) to avoid overpayments and potential repayment demands later.
When Should a Client Apply for SSDI?
Timing is critical when applying for SSDI. Here’s when to consider it:
As soon as Disability is Determined to be Long-Term
If it’s clear that the injury will keep the client out of work for at least a year, don’t wait. SSDI applications can take months to process.
While Receiving Workers’ Comp
Clients can apply for SSDI while still getting workers’ compensations payments. This ensures they’ll have an income when workers’ comp ends.
Before or After a Settlement
If you’re close to settling the workers’ comp claim, plan the SSDI application carefully to minimize offsets.
Want to get in touch? 1 800 454 5454
Next Steps
Applying for SSDI can be a complex process, especially when you’re also dealing with workers’ compensation. Here are a few tips to help:
Gather Documentation
Advise your clients to be prepared to provide medical records, proof of work history, and details about their workers’ compensation benefits.
Get Expert Advice
Consider consulting an expert in Social Security Benefits, like Casa de la Justicia, to guide your clients through the application process and help them understand how SSDI will impact your current benefits.
ABe Patient
The SSDI process can take time, but the benefits are worth the effort for clients that qualify.
At Walker Firm PC, DBA Casa de la Justicia, our experienced SSDI attorneys can help you better understand the options and work with your clients to secure the monthly benefits they need to support their recovery and future well-being. Just call 1 800 454 5454 and we will help without a penny coming out of your client’s pocket.
