Yes — you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if your work-related injury prevents you from working for a long period of time. While workers’ compensation and SSDI are separate programs, they can work together to provide essential support during your recovery.
It’s important to understand how these two systems interact and where potential conflicts may arise — so you can maximize your benefits.
SSDI Eligibility Basics
To qualify for SSDI, you must meet three main requirements:
- You’ve been unable to work for at least five consecutive months
- Your medical condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
- You’ve worked and paid into Social Security long enough typically, at least five out of the last ten years before your injury
SSDI is a federal program designed to support individuals with long-term or permanent disabilities, regardless of how or where the injury occurred. That means your injury doesn’t have to be job-related to qualify but it often is, especially in cases involving serious workplace accidents or chronic job-related conditions.
The 5-Month Waiting Period
By law, SSDI benefits don’t begin until the sixth full month after your disability begins. That means even if you’re approved, there is a built-in waiting period before payments start. This delay can create a financial gap, which is why workers’ compensation benefits often play a crucial role in the meantime.
Can You Receive Workers’ Comp and SSDI at the Same Time?
Yes but there are limitations.
If your combined SSDI and workers’ compensation payments exceed 80% of your average pre-injury earnings, your SSDI benefits may be reduced. This is called the workers’ compensation offset. The Social Security Administration applies this offset to prevent “double-dipping” but it can reduce your SSDI checks substantially if not properly managed.
How these benefits interact depends on how your workers’ comp payments are structured (e.g., weekly payments vs. a lump-sum settlement) and how the settlement is worded.
What You Should Do Next
If your work injury is serious and long-lasting, it’s a good idea to begin evaluating your SSDI eligibility early. Here’s how to get started:
- Speak with your doctor to determine whether your condition is expected to last a year or more
- Review your work history to ensure you’ve earned enough Social Security credits
- Collect medical documentation that shows how your injury limits your ability to work
- Submit your SSDI application online, by phone, or at a Social Security office
- Talk to an attorney who understands both SSDI and workers’ compensation
We Help You Coordinate Both Claims the Right Way
We guide injured workers through both the SSDI and workers’ compensation processes. We help ensure your claims don’t conflict, your paperwork is handled correctly, and you receive the maximum compensation available under both systems.
If you’re unsure about SSDI eligibility, concerned about a workers’ comp offset, or just want help navigating the red tape, reach out today for a free consultation. We’re here to protect your health, your income, and your future.
