Millions of Americans have a disability which makes it hard to complete everyday tasks. They have to depend on family for many of their needs and suffer financial hardship because they are unable to work with a disability like PTSD. This is a psychiatric disorder that occurs when the victim witnesses a traumatic event like a natural disaster, a severe accident, a terrorist act, or has been involved in war, has been raped or who have been threatened with death, sexual injury and sexual violence. People with PTSD may view the world as a dangerous place and they are afraid to leave their homes.
Financial Help with PTSD
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for assessing those with PTSD and other disabilities for eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Anyone entitled to these benefits needs to have accumulated sufficient work credits when employed. How many work credits you require depends on your age when you became disabled. If you are under 24 years you only need six credits but if you are over 62 years you will need to have accrued 40 credits.
If the SSA has made the decision that you are eligible for SSDI because your medical condition is expected to last for at least 12 months and you have enough work credits you will begin to receive a SSDI benefit. Each year SSDI benefits increase when Social Security cost-of-living adjustments are made.
Retirement and Survivors' Benefits
If you were born after 1928, you need 40 credits to qualify for retirement benefits. If you have earned more than this amount it will not increase the amount you receive in retirement benefits.
If you are working and paying into Social Security, some of those taxes you pay are for survivors’ benefits. Your spouse, children, and parents could be eligible for benefits based on your earnings. Your family members may receive survivors’ benefits if you die. For family members to be considered for survivors’ benefits, it depends on your age when you die. The younger you are, the less credits needed. No one is required to have more than 40 credits. If you are already receiving retirement or disability benefits at the date of your death, the SSA will pay your survivors based on that entitlement.
Medicare Coverage
Medicare is available for certain people with disabilities who are under 65 years. These individuals must have been receiving Social Security Disability benefits for 24 months. People with a disability like PTSD who qualify for Social Security Disability benefits should be sent a Medicare card by mail when the 24 month qualifying period has passed. When you receive the card Medicare it covers the cost of hospital stays, skilled nursing care in a facility, hospice care, and some home health care. It also covers doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, preventive services and prescription drugs.
Return to Work Incentives and the Ticket to Work Program
The SSA’s Ticket to Work Program offers career development for those receiving Social Security disability benefits who are between the age of 18 and 64 years and are eager to return to work. The Ticket Program has no cost, voluntary, and assists people with disabilities make advancements toward financial independence.
The PASS Program
The objective of the PASS program is to help disabled individuals find employment that reduces or eliminates the need for SSI or SSDI benefits.
Next Steps to Take
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