Those who are unable to work due to a disability will be receiving a nice present from the government this holiday season. Approximately 65 million Social Security recipients will receive a cost of living adjustment starting in late December and January.
The increase in monthly pay amounts to 1.5 percent. This means that the average monthly disability payment will rise from $1,131 to $1,148. Although only a $17 monthly increase, this extra money will help those who struggle to pay day-to-day expenses.
The amount that a person can expect to receive for SSDI benefits depends on what other types of income he or she receives, if any. For example, income from a job will reduce a person's SSDI benefits, as will workers' compensation and retirement benefits. However, benefits from Supplemental Security Income (SSI), unemployment, pensions and insurance benefits have no effect.
Generally speaking, the total amount of a person's benefits cannot exceed 80 percent of the income they made before they became disabled. It's important to know that those who work part-time can still receive SSDI benefits. Those who work full-time typically are not eligible to receive any benefits, but sometimes the Social Security Administration does make exceptions.
Those who are looking to receive SSDI benefits after suffering a long-term disability may wish to learn more about their legal rights, since the rules can be complicated for those who are unfamiliar with the system. Sometimes claims are wrongly denied and it takes the help of an experienced professional who understands the rules and can help file an appeal.
Source: Cleveland Advocate, "Social Security recipients to get 1.5 percent cost of living adjustment," Andrew Hardwick, Nov. 26, 2013
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