Serious injuries often leave victims in New Jersey with no other choice but to file for Social Security disability. This is especially true for those who are permanently disabled. But the problem that most face is determining if they are qualified for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. Many New Jersey residents do not understand that SSDI is actually an insurance program that only applies if the disabled applicant has enough tax credits registered with the Social Security Administration. All of those who do not qualify will be evaluated for Supplemental Security Income eligibility. This means it is always good for every New Jersey worker to know where they stand with the SSA.
Program qualification
Social Security credits are earned throughout the year when people work and pay Social Security taxes. Employers deduct the amount from the worker’s paycheck and match it to fulfill the legal obligations of both. Social Security does not offer temporary disability except for one-year evaluations for Supplemental Security Income, so people left with permanent damage after an injury will typically only be qualified for SSDI.
How credits are measured
The test of qualifying for SSDI after disability determination is ruled is how many credits are on the record of the disabled applicant. Workers are granted one credit per three months worked throughout a work year if they earn over $1510 per quarter. Those who earn $6040 through the early part of the year are given four credits for the entire work year. Permanently disabled applicants must have 20 earned credits over the past 10 years in order to qualify for SSDI.
Social Security Disability Insurance awards are separate from any injury settlement an applicant may receive before being determined eligible for SSDI. However, personal assets can disqualify an applicant for SSI if they have more than $2000 in cash ($3000 if married) and own more than one home and one moderately-valued vehicle.