Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides critical income to disabled individuals who can no longer work, but many do not realize that their spouses may also qualify for benefits. Spousal benefits can provide additional financial support for your household at a time when income is limited. Understanding the rules and requirements for these benefits is important, and an SSDI lawyer can guide you through the process.
Our attorneys at Schaffer & Associates were born and raised in northwest Ohio. With decades of experience helping disabled individuals, we know how to clearly explain your options and help you pursue the benefits available to your family. When you call us, you will speak directly with an attorney who is familiar with Findlay SSDI benefits for spouses.
Spouses of individuals with disabilities in Findlay and the surrounding area may be eligible for SSDI benefits if certain conditions are met. These benefits can help families replace income lost due to a disability.
It is important to understand that SSDI spousal benefits are tied to the disabled worker’s earnings record. If your spouse worked long enough and recently enough to qualify for SSDI, their record may also support your eligibility. At Schaffer & Associates, we make sure you know whether you qualify and what documentation you need.
Spousal benefits are calculated as a percentage of the disabled worker’s SSDI amount. Typically, a spouse in Findlay can receive up to 50 percent of the worker’s disability benefit. For example, if your spouse receives $2,000 per month in SSDI, you may qualify for up to $1,000 per month in spousal benefits.
If you also qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the maximum benefit amount varies but is generally just under $1,000 for individuals and just under $1,500 for couples. SSI is income-based, while SSDI is based on work history. Disabled individuals who are not eligible for SSI may still qualify for SSDI benefits if they worked long enough and recently enough, typically within the past five years. Our attorneys can explain these differences so you avoid costly mistakes.
Many families in Findlay and the surrounding area attempt to apply for spousal SSDI benefits on their own, only to face confusion, mistakes, and denials. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict rules and deadlines, and even small errors can lead to delays. A lawyer can help ensure that your application is filed correctly and that your eligibility is clearly established.
Our attorneys also prepare for hearings, which are informal but require thorough preparation. A BWC physician may provide medical evidence in workers’ compensation cases, but SSA judges require specific records and functional reports. We know how to collect and present the evidence needed for approval. Because we are a boutique firm, you will work directly with the same attorneys from start to finish instead of being handed off to junior staff.
Findlay SSDI benefits for spouses can make a significant difference for families struggling with disability-related income loss. At Schaffer & Associates, our local attorneys understand the system and will fight to help you and your spouse secure the benefits you deserve.
Call today to speak directly with an attorney and learn more about SSDI spousal benefits.