If you live in California and you are unable to work as a result of a disability that has lasted for a year or more, you may be eligible for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. Additionally, you may qualify for a variety of benefits offered by the state of California itself.
Understandably, you’ll want to understand how these benefits and programs interact with one another so you can ensure that you fully assert your rights and pursue all benefits to which you’re entitled under the law.
What Benefits Are Offered by the Social Security Administration?
Those who have a qualifying medical condition that has rendered them disabled for one continuous calendar year or more may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Eligibility for SSDI is determined by employment history and how much an individual has contributed to the Social Security system in payroll taxes.
SSI, on the other hand, is intended for disabled individuals with income and resources below a certain threshold established by the Social Security Administration. This threshold may change yearly, so you must talk to an attorney who knows and understands the law and can offer advice regarding your situation.
Regardless of whether you receive SSDI or SSI benefits, the amount of the benefit payment does not depend upon the condition itself. Instead, it will depend on a variety of things, including work and earning history, income and resource levels, and other factors, depending upon your circumstances. In California, individuals may receive SSDI benefits, SSI benefits, or both, depending on their particular situations.
In addition to the typical Social Security disability benefits, those living in California may qualify for various other benefits as well. One of those programs is called “Covered California.” Let’s take a closer look together at what Covered California is and whether or not it could impact the disability benefits you receive, as well as other benefits you might qualify for as a resident of California.
What is Covered California?
Covered California is a free service that helps connect California residents with health insurance plans from well-known companies under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Those who apply may receive a discount on a health plan provided through Covered California, or they may receive health insurance through the state’s Medi-Cal program.
If you live in California and you have a plan through Covered California and have also been determined to be disabled by the Social Security Administration, you should automatically be enrolled in Medicare within two years of receiving SSDI benefits. During that two-year waiting period, you may choose to purchase health care coverage through the Covered California program. Depending upon the size of your family, your income level, and other circumstances, you may even qualify for financial assistance to lower the cost of your plan through Covered California or to receive either low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal benefits.
As a general rule, however, being enrolled in Covered California or purchasing a health care plan through Covered California should not ultimately affect the amount or duration of Social Security disability benefits you receive. As with any legal matter, however, consulting an attorney regarding your particular circumstances and how the law may apply is always advised.
Are Other Benefits Available?
In addition to the benefits offered by Covered California, California is also one of the few states that also provides public short-term disability insurance for those who have temporary impairments. Those who are temporarily disabled but expected to return to work within a year may be eligible for disability pay of between 60 and 70% of their average wages during the term of their leave, up to a maximum of $1,620 per week in 2024.
If you live in California, you may be interested in learning more about these benefits and whether or not you qualify. If so, you should consult an attorney who knows and understands the law and can advise you on your particular circumstances. At Sackett Law, we’re here for you.
Sackett Law – Here For You
Sometimes, the law can seem very complicated, and asserting your rights and pursuing the benefits you need and deserve can feel overwhelming. If you feel that way, you should know that you aren’t alone. Understanding the rules and regulations required by different programs can be confusing – that’s why the team at Sackett Law is here to help. Our talented and experienced legal team understands every aspect of the law pertaining to disability benefits, and we’re here to put that knowledge to work for you. We’ll always pursue the best legal strategies on your behalf because you deserve nothing less. If you’re ready to get started, give us a call today. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
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