Social security disability varies from state to state, which can make understanding the process pretty confusing. Luckily for you, we’ve handled a number of complex Social Security disability claims and been able to secure payments for our clients. Below, we’re going to take a closer look at Social Security disability benefits in Minnesota, and what needs to happen if you want to collect these benefits.
Although Social Security is a federal program, how it is applied and governed varies between states. A lot of the core principles remain the same, but there are nuances that you need to be aware of. Under Minnesota law, in order for a person to collect Social Security Disability benefits, a person has to meet the criteria for disabled. This is defined as having a medical condition that renders you unable to work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. As you can see, this is a pretty strict definition of the term. And while you may be able to pursue some type of short-term disability for your injury, you can’t earn that through Minnesota Social Security Disability.
Here’s a closer look at the two types of programs offered under Minnesota Social Security Disability.
Supplemental Security Income
The first program Minnesota offers is known as Supplemental Security Income, or SSI benefits. The SSI program is designed to make monthly payments to individuals with low incomes and few resources who are older than 65 years of age. In order to receive SSI benefits, you have to complete an application at your local Social Security office or by phone.
Social Security Disability Insurance
The next program Minnesota offers is Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI benefits. These benefits are offered to insured workers, their disabled surviving spouses and children of disabled, retired or deceased workers. In order to earn these benefits, a person has to meet these two criteria.
- A recent work test, which involves looking at the amount of time you’ve worked within the past 10 years prior to receiving your disability rating. In general, you’ll have to have worked for at least five of the last 10 years in order to meet this criteria.
- A duration of work test, which determines if you’ve worked long enough under Social Security. In general, this means that the person has an average of six years of work if they are between the ages of 30 and 60. Younger individuals have reduced standards.
The amount of money you’re entitled to under Minnesota SSDI benefits depends on how much you’ve earned and paid into Social Security throughout the years. If you’re approved for SSDI benefits, you will automatically receive Medicare after receiving your SSDI benefits for two years.
If you are unsure if you’re eligible for either of these benefits, or you need assistance filing for SSI or SSDI benefits, reach out to Hey Workers today. We can help you clarify any questions or help you answer some questions to help you get approved. The application process and subsequent forms can be complicated and time consuming, and we’d be more than happy to help you complete the forms. Contact our office today for more information.
