Social Security is a retirement system designed to provide financial support for Americans after they reach retirement age. People often defer taking Social Security as long as possible in order to secure a better financial standing long-term, but there are often reasons why a California adult may need to begin drawing Social Security benefits sooner. If an individual is already receiving this type of support, could he or she also be eligible for disability benefits?
Seeking disability support
The Social Security Administration also offers benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a disabling medical condition. However, if one is already drawing Social Security and wants to apply for disability benefits, that could make the process more complicated. Typically, if someone is receiving Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, those benefits would convert to Social Security retirement benefits upon reaching full retirement age.
However, if one drew Social Security retirement benefits early, he or she could still apply for disability benefits. If the application is approved, the payments would convert to disability benefits, and the payment amount would automatically adjust as well. However, once the recipient reaches full retirement age, the benefits would convert again to Social Security benefits.
Help for a complex process
Eligibility requirements for Social Security disability benefits can be complicated, especially if one is already receiving other types of benefits. An applicant will benefit from working with an experienced California disability attorney at every step of the process. This guidance may lower the chance of setbacks and other complications in the effort to secure necessary financial support from the SSA.