Frequently Asked Social Security Benefits Questions in South Carolina

If you’re unable to do your job due to a long-term medical problem, Social Security Disability benefits might be what keeps you and loved ones from facing financial disaster. The Dennison Law Firm, P.C. in Greenville represents South Carolina clients in initial claims and Social Security Disability Appeals. My firm provides exceptional advice and advocacy to clients who are having trouble obtaining the payment they have earned thorough years of work and paycheck contributions. You can count on me to assert your rights and answer questions such as:

• How does the Social Security Administration define disability?
• How long does it take to receive Social Security Disability benefits in South Carolina?
• How long can you be on Social Security Disability in South Carolina?
• Are there benefits for widows or widowers under Social Security Disability?
• What are the Social Security Disability qualifications for someone 50 or older?

How does the Social Security Administration define disability? 

Under Social Security Administration rules, an applicant is considered disabled if they suffer from a physical or mental condition that is expected to prevent them from performing substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months. A medical problem that is believed to be fatal also qualifies someone for Social Security Disability benefits. Substantial gainful activity is defined as work that is generally performed for pay or profit. Different standards apply based on the particular impairment. However, the fact that you are performing duties that would normally be compensable in a volunteer role or that you’re running a business that is not profitable will not allow you to maintain your disability status.

How long does it take to receive Social Security Disability benefits in South Carolina?

Typically, there is a five-month waiting period before an approved applicant can receive SSDI benefits. Therefore, payments start at the beginning of the sixth month if the disability is projected to last for at least 12 months or is expected to result in the applicant’s death.

How long can you be on Social Security Disability in South Carolina?

If your disability continues to prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity and you follow the rules set forth by the Social Security Administration, you should continue to collect SSDI benefits until you turn 65 years old. When that occurs, you will start to receive the retirement payments you are entitled to under Social Security.

Are there benefits for widows or widowers under Social Security Disability?

Yes, survivors’ benefits are provided if an SSDI recipient dies. How these payments are allocated depend on whether the surviving spouse is a parent, their age and if they remarry.

What are the Social Security Disability qualifications for someone 50 or older?

Part of the evaluation process for SSDI benefits is the determination as to whether an applicant’s disability allows them to do any type of work. While a certain medical condition might prevent someone from performing the job they previously had, they might be able to be retrained for a different job that they are capable of doing. However, Social Security rules recognize that individuals 50 and older might have difficulty adapting to a new line of work, so standards are relaxed gradually for people in this age group.