Can I Collect Workers Compensation & Social Security Disability Benefits?

Did you know that in the United States Social Security disability benefits are available not only for physical disorders but for mental disorders as well? The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides disability benefits to workers who can no longer work due to a qualifying mental disorder in order to replace some of their lost income, but what constitutes a qualifying mental disorder? How much money can a disabled worker who suffers from a mental disorder expect to receive from the SSA? How do I apply for disability benefits based on a mental disorder? These are just some of the frequently asked questions about Social Security benefits based on mental disorders that are answered below.

Q: When applying for Social Security disability benefits, what qualifies as a mental disorder?

A: The Social Security Administration’s website notes that under the Social Security Act a person is considered to be disabled if he or she can not work due a severe medical condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least one year or result in death. This medical condition must prevent the disabled person from doing the work that he/she did in the past and prevent them from adjusting to other work.

Q: Which mental disorders most commonly qualify individuals to receive Social Security disability benefits?

A: The SSA has identified nine categories of mental disorders that most commonly affect individuals to the point where they can no longer work. These nine diagnostic categories are:

• Organic mental disorders

• Schizophrenic, paranoid, and other psychotic disorders

• Affective disorders

• Intellectual disability disorders

• Anxiety disorders

• Somatoform disorders

• Personality disorders

• Substance addiction disorders

• Autism and other pervasive developmental disorders

Q: If I qualify to receive Social Security disability benefits based on a mental disorder how much money can I expect to receive from the Social Security Administration?

A: Be aware that most disability payments issued by the Social Security Administration are modest. In fact, back in 2015 the SSA reported that the average monthly disability benefits paid to Social Security disability recipients was $1,165. The amount that a particular disabled individual receives each month from the SSA is calculated based on their average lifetime earnings before their disability began and on the amount of income that the individual has paid Social Security taxes on. However, as of 2017 the maximum monthly benefit that a disabled individual can receive is $2,687.

Q: How do I go about applying for Social Security disability benefits based on a mental disorder?

A: To apply for Social Security disability benefits based on a mental disorder you must first contact the SSA and inform them that you intend to file a claim. Next, you will submit documentation showing that you suffer from a qualifying mental disorder and will attend an interview with a claims examiner. If the examiner approves your claim then your journey ends here, however, if you claim is denied then you will have to work your way through the appeals process.

Reach Out to Mental Disorder Attorney in Utah Today

Applying for Social Security disability benefits based on a mental disorder can be a confusing and frustrating process. However, the experienced Social Security disability attorneys of the Summit Disability Law Group are here to help. Our firm is committed to helping clients with mental disorders and other disabilities recover the Social Security disability benefits that they are legally entitled to. If you need help navigating the complicated Social Security disability claims process or fighting to recover the benefits that are rightfully yours, contact us today at (801) 845-0056 to set up a free initial consultation.

#workerscompensation #socialsecuritybenefits