We often hear from individuals that ask us, “can I get disability if I got hurt outside of work?” We certainly understand your position if concerned about the possibility of losing your job due to an injury outside of work.
When you are injured during a non-work related incident, you will not be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, if you find yourself injured and unable to perform the same level of work you did before, then you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.
Need immediate assistance applying for disability benefits? Complete this brief questionnaire for a free evaluation!
Difference Between Workers’ Comp and SSD Benefits
Workers’ compensation benefits are provided to you when you are injured at work. As required by most state laws, employers are required to carry workers’ compensation to cover injured employees.
Workers’ compensation is considered temporary disability benefits that are paid until your condition becomes permanent and stationary. This varies greatly from Social Security Disability benefits, which are long-term benefits that require a permanent or semi-permanent disability.
Do I Qualify For Social Security Disability Benefits?
Social Security Disability benefits are awarded to individuals who are considered disabled by the Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines. The SSA defines a disability as a condition that:
- Limits your ability to perform substantial gainful activity (SGA);
- Has lasted, or is expected to last, for a continuous period of at least 12 months.
There are two types of benefits that you may qualify for in the event of experiencing a disabling, non-work injury: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
While both require that you meet the minimum definition of disability, there are important differences between the two types of disability benefits. The main difference is how individuals qualify:
SSDI
- Requires enough earned work credits in the last 10 years;
- Based on your work history and amount.
SSDI is based on a specific amount of work credits, which correlates to years you spent working in a job that contributed Social Security taxes. These credits could be earned on your own accord, or they could be based on the earnings of a spouse or parent.
SSI
- Strictly need-based program;
- Requires you to have less than $2,000 in assets and extremely limited income.
Because SSI is centered on needs-based assistance, the qualifications for disability are related to situations where an individual does not have access to income or resources.
Find Help Applying for Disability Benefits
If you were recently hurt outside of work and want to know more about whether you qualify for disability benefits, then you have come to the right place. We will help you on your quest to find support through Social Security Disability benefits.
Our team takes the difficulty out of the application process by doing the hard part for you. We have the patience, skill, and experience to help you apply for benefits and set you on the path to approval.
To get started, complete this free evaluation form or contact us to discuss your situation and start the process!