Social Security law in Missouri regulates the various programs, both state and federal, that are in place to assist those that cannot work due to a physical or mental disability.
There are two distinctly different programs: Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income SSDI. Social Security Disability provides disability benefits to those who have worked and accrued enough work credits to qualify. SSI, on the other hand, is a program based on need and is available to those that have never worked and have few assets.
How to qualify for Social Security disability:
If you should become disabled and wish to claim Social Security, the law states that you must have worked for a specific number of years, and during that time, paid FICA taxes. To be more specific, you must have accrued enough work credits to qualify. If you have not been employed long enough and amassed sufficient work credits, you cannot claim SSDI, but you can claim SSI that is paid for out of the general tax fund, not Social Security.
Medical requirements:
To meet the demands of Social Security law in Missouri, your medical condition must meet the definition of the disability stated by the SSA. Only claimants with a severely disabling condition, that is expected to last at least one year, and makes it impossible for you to work are eligible.
The definitions of the terms are:
- Severe: Your disability must jeopardize your ability to work and earn a living
- Long term: It is anticipated that your disability will last at least 12 months
Denial of benefits:
The majority of initial claims for Social Security disability benefits are denied, but you have the right to appeal. The “request for reconsideration” step is not applicable in Missouri; the first step is to have a face-to-face meeting with an Administrative Law Judge.
Social Security law in Missouri is very complex. If you are disabled, and wish to claim Social Security benefits, a qualified attorney can help. For a free initial consultation, contact Grundy Law Group, LLC. Follow us on twitter.
