Social Security Disability is a program that helps people who suffer from extreme disabilities that prevent them from working. It is not similar to workers’ compensation or other disability programs.
The Social Security Administration has very strict rules for qualifying for SSD benefits. Because of this, very few people can receive these benefits, and applying for them can be very difficult. Most people do not understand why it is so hard to get benefits, and that may also make them believe myths about the system. The truth is that people of all ages with various conditions get these benefits.
Typical recipient
People who get SSD usually are very sick. About one out of every eight women and one out of six men receiving the benefits will die within five years of their first benefit check. These are people who have a likelihood to die three times higher than the average person within one year. People on SSD are usually the sickest individuals in the nation.
While the age of most people getting these benefits averages to about 55 years old, younger people get them too. One in four people at the age of 20 will suffer a disability that qualifies them for benefits before they retire.
Payments
People can usually not live off of SSD alone. These benefits are not paid at a high rate. In 2019, the average payment was $1,234 a month. That would not even cover most people’s basic needs. Getting these benefits is an added income source to help people who are disabled. It is not a replacement for earned wages.
SSD is a misunderstood program. Many people who apply do not understand how it works and will therefore end up with a denial.
