Social Security Disability (SSD) is a federal program that provides income assistance to people who are unable to work due to a disability. To qualify for SSD, a person must meet certain medical criteria and have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes wihin the 5 years preceeding the date they allege they became disabled.

Some people might see SSD as a plan to take care of them financially should they become unable to work.  In reality, however, Social Security Disability is far more like a lotery ticket.  This is because that SSD is not a guarantee and not everyone who applies will be approved. In fact, the approval process can be quite rigorous and involve extensive medical documentation and a long, time consuming process that often requires hiring a Social Security Disability lawyer.  In Connecticut, in 2022, only 41% of those that applied for SSD were actually awarded benefits.  This includes all applicants including those with end stage cancer and stage IV kidney disease.

Even if you are successful in obtaining SSD benefits, the monthly stipend  are often not enough to fully support a person and their family. The average monthly benefit amount for SSD recipients in 2021 was $1,277, which is often not enough to cover all expenses.

Therefore, while SSD can provide some financial assistance to those who are unable to work due to a disability, it is not a comprehensive plan for financial stability and should not be relied upon as the sole source of income.

Should you have questions, feel free to contact us for more information or a free consultation.