No one wants to be defined as ‘disabled’, however it could make a difference in the amount of Social Security you receive over your lifetime. A disability benefit is equal to full retirement benefits. It is not reduced for age.
The disability determination is based on severity of impairment, but it can also be a cumulative decision of multiple impairments.
Example:
You have arthritis, sleep apnea, diabetes, high blood pressure, and depression. You may not be approved with just one of these impairments, but if you have all of them, the possibility of being approved is greater.
You can submit a disability application to see if it’s approved. It’s private; no one will know you have filed. Social Security does not share it’s information. If your claim is approved, you will receive your full benefit for the duration of your entitlement. This means more money in your pocket.
If you have stopped working and have medical issues, filing for disability may be your best option for a higher benefit rate.
Maryellen Eckert
SSA Specialist
