Applying for and winning disability benefits is a complicated process that can take months and even years. Furthermore, some applicants who are denied benefits may need to appeal the decision. This can take even more time. Once you receive your disability payments, you will probably breathe a sigh of relief.
But over time, it could become clear that your monthly disability benefits are not enough. The good news is that you can take steps to increase disability payments. It starts with hiring a skilled Texas Social Security disability lawyer. Turn Ascend Disability Benefits, LLC.
Ways to Increase Disability Payments
The amount of monthly disability benefits you receive is based largely on your earnings. Since by definition a disability means you can’t work, you likely won’t be able to base an increased disability payment on higher earnings.
Nonetheless, there are certain life changes you may encounter that could allow you to seek a higher payment amount. Here are some examples.
Death of a Husband or Wife
If your spouse has died, you may be able to claim survivor benefits. A higher amount may be available based on the kind of work your late spouse did. You can also claim survivor benefits in some cases if your ex-spouse has died. This may be true even if you are receiving benefits from another spouse.
Former Spouse
You might qualify for benefits due to an ex-spouse’s work. You need to be at least 62 years old and unmarried, and the prior marriage must have lasted 10 years or longer. It should be stressed that there is no guarantee that your former marriage will enable you to receive higher payments.
However, it’s worth checking with a disability benefits attorney in Texas to learn more.
Retirement Benefits
Your retirement age is either 66 or 67, depending on the year in which you were born. If you are at retirement age or older, you can claim Social Security benefits. These can be paid along with your disability benefits.
More Benefits if You Have Worked
Although you might not have been able to work because of your disability, some individuals can. If you have worked, you could be eligible for a higher monthly disability benefits payment. This will vary from one person to another, so check with a Texas disability lawyer for more information.
Caring for a Disabled Child
Caring for a disabled child may provide a boost to your benefits. Here is an example of how it works. Assume you are caring for a child who became disabled either before age 22 or while under the age of 16. In this scenario, the child may be eligible for more benefits through your or your spouse’s work.
Military Service
If you’re a veteran, we strongly suggest you look into VA benefits if you have not done so already. The VA can assist if you are having trouble with income. In addition, the VA offers a number of different resources that can help offset the cost of certain expenses.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
If your income or resources have dropped, you might be eligible for SSI. This is a separate program that provides additional support to low-income disabled individuals and seniors. Some individuals qualify for both SSDI (disability) and SSI benefits.
Our Team Can Help You Get Started
Do you have questions about increasing your disability benefits? Would you like to learn more about applying for benefits if you have yet to do so? Our Texas disability benefits law firm is ready to handle all aspects of your claim. We can even assist in appealing an adverse decision.
Get started today by giving Ascend Disability Lawyers, LLC a call at (855) 445-9787.
