Social Security Benefits Stretched Too Thin

Veterans disability lawyer

Did you know that, among Florida seniors (ages 65 and up), an overwhelming 90% receive Social Security benefits? The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) reveals that Social Security, in fact, supports 60.4 million men and women nation-wide. Even so, it can be surprisingly difficult to apply, and get approved, for Social Security and Social Security disability. What are some of the basics of filing Social Security claims, and how is the nationally funded program changing?

Filing For Social Security? Know the Basics

As of January 2013, an estimated 56 million Americans received even more benefits and assistance, or an additional $19 per month. Twenty percent of national spending goes to Social Security programs, according to NPR. What many do not realize, however, is that qualifying for benefits can be challenging. What are some of the most basic requirements?

  • In order to qualify, Americans must be at least 18 years old. Applicants must also be long-standing residents of a U.S. state or territory.
  • Life-altering injuries. The Social Security Administration (SSA) regularly updates a list of Compassionate Allowances. Should any of your disabilities or conditions constitute a Compassionate Allowance, you will be approved immediately and start receiving benefits right away.
  • Failing that, applicants will undergo a screening process to determine whether disabilities leave them unable to work. The government assesses claims on a case-to-case basis, and only 35% of disability applicants in Florida receive benefits. Social Security attorneys can answer any questions, or help with the application and approval process.

    What is the Future of Social Security?

    According to U.S. News, “If you claim earlier you are getting more of a penalty now than you used to. The reduction in benefits for people claiming at age 62 will further increase to 30 percent for everyone born in 1960 or later under current law.” Benefits and funding are becoming increasingly stretched thin. As such, applicants with past military experience may want to consider VA disability benefits. Veterans suffering from military trauma, for example, may get benefits from government and military programs faster, and more reliably, than from Social Security.

    Qualifying for Social Security is not a simple process. Know some of the most basic requirements, and talk to an attorney about complicated cases. Sufferers of military trauma and disability may want to seek aid directly from federal military assistance and relief programs. Find out more here.

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