Many who are seeking Social Security disability benefits in southern California are rightly concerned that other income they receive may reduce the amount of their disability payments. Complicated rules govern disability benefits, so you’ll need to talk with an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability lawyer to have your specific questions answered and concerns addressed.
If you receive any government or public benefits such as workers’ compensation, it could lower the amount of your Social Security disability payments. Workers’ compensation is paid when someone becomes sick or injured because of a work-related situation. You can still receive Veterans’ Administration benefits and private income such as insurance payments. A Los Angeles Social Security disability lawyer can clarify if any benefits you already receive might reduce your Social Security disability payments.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) employs a precise formula to determine how your benefits will be reduced. Social Security disability benefits and workers’ compensation benefits are added together, and if that total is more than 80 percent of your prior average earnings, they will reduce your Social Security disability benefits by that amount. The SSA might determine your average earnings in one of three ways:
- They might use an average of all your monthly earnings.
- They might use your average monthly earnings during the five consecutive years you earned the most.
- They might average the earnings from your highest-paid year in the last five.
Generally, the SSA uses the last option. Your attorney can determine and explain which formula will apply in your case. Your attorney may also be able to help you find some exemptions. Applying for Social Security disability benefits is always complicated, and you really must have the help of an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability lawyer. If you need to receive the benefits, make the call today.