From time to time I receive questions about SSD eligibility and coverage, so I thought I’d share a recent set of questions and my answers:
Question: If someone has been out of work for a period of time, say 3 years, can they still apply for SSD. Is there a time limit for filing a claim after someone stops working?
Answer: There is no specified time limit but the way it works is this: SSD pays benefits to an individual based on their prior work history. Work history is categorized into quarters of coverage (QC), commonly referred to as “Work Credits,” or just “credits.” You can earn a maximum of four quarters in each calendar year. To be currently insured you must have earned 20 quarters within the past 10 years. A simple way to understand the rule is if you worked full-time 5 out of the last 10 years you are likely to be currently eligible for SSD. I should add that this is a simplification and the results may vary depending on the individual’s situation.
**Keep in mind that it’s possible to be found disabled even when you are no longer currently insured, as long as you can prove that your disability began before the expiration of your insured status.
Question: Is there a cap on the amount of monthly SSD benefits? In other words, a maximum monthly benefit?
Answer: Yes, $2533 for 2013.
Question: Will Social Security still do phone appointments with people who are unable to come in to apply for SSD?
Answer: Yes! We always recommend in-person or phone over the online application unless you are a very confident computer user.