Qualifying for SSDI can unlock other benefits. It’s not just about your monthly payment

  Return To Work

There are incentives if you return to work: free help from a certified Employment Network, protection for SSDI income, and more. If you’re offered services under the Ticket to Work program Social Security may send you a “ticket” that you can use to get services to help you go to work or earn more money. You may take the “ticket” to your state vocational rehabilitation agency or to an employment network of your choice. Employment networks are private organizations that have agreed to work with Social Security to provide employment services to beneficiaries with disabilities

Retirement Benefits

Approval for SSDI triggers a Social Security earnings record freeze that can result in a higher retirement income.

Dependent Benefits

SSDI approval can activate benefits for children under the age of 18, adding up to 50% more to an individual monthly payment.

Tax Relief

You may not have to pay income taxes on a portion of the SSDI benefit payments you get each month.

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Medicare

You’re eligible for this medical, hospital and prescription coverage at any age, 24 months after your SSDI benefits begin.

Cobra

Your COBRA benefits could be extended if you get SSDI, for coverage that lasts 11 months longer.

LTD Security

If you have private long-term disability (LTD) insurance, it probably requires you to apply for SSDI. Doing this can protect LTD benefits.