The ability to work is a blessing — it allows you to earn a living, provide for your family, and pursue personal goals. However, an accident or illness can upend that reality in an instant, leaving you with physical and financial uncertainties. Fortunately, there are systems to support you during these difficult times.
Workers’ compensation and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are lifelines. If you live in Minnesota, can you receive the benefits of both programs at the same time? Let a job injury lawyer in Minnesota explain.
What Is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
On the one hand, workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system for employees who sustain injuries or become ill as a result of their work activities. From falls and carpal tunnel syndrome to respiratory issues and PTSD, you only need to demonstrate that your workplace was a substantial contributing factor to your need for medical care.
Workers’ compensation has three categories of benefits:
- Wage-Loss Benefits: Partial wage replacement if the mishap prevents you from working entirely or reduces your earnings.
- Medical Benefits: Coverage for treatment, including doctor visits, surgery, therapy, and prescription medications.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Assistance in returning to work, whether through job training, career counseling, or placement services.
Since the system also safeguards employers by limiting their liability, experienced attorneys help employees manage workers’ compensation settlements in Minneapolis and other cities across Minnesota. Legal support becomes vital with rejections and disputes common in the claims process.
What Is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
On the other hand, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides monthly payments to individuals who cannot work due to a qualifying disability. If approved, you will be enrolled in Medicare two years after the date your disability benefits begin.
In addition to SSDI, the Social Security Administration offers Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a separate program that gives monthly payments of up to $967 to individuals with limited income and resources. In some cases, you may qualify for both SSDI and SSI.
Can You Receive Both at the Same Time?
Yes, it is possible to claim both workers’ compensation and SSDI benefits simultaneously. However, doing so requires careful coordination.
People who suffer serious work-related injuries may be eligible for workers’ compensation wage-loss benefits while qualifying for SSDI. A combination of a work injury and pre-existing or unrelated medical conditions may also work. That said, there are limits:
- The combined total of your monthly SSDI payments (including any benefits payable to dependents) and your workers’ compensation or other public disability payments must not surpass 80% of your average current earnings before you became disabled.
- If the total amount exceeds this 80% threshold, the excess amount will be subtracted from your Social Security benefits.
Due to the complex calculations, understanding how the two programs work together is essential for your full benefit entitlement.
Work With a Job Injury Lawyer in Minnesota
Navigating the process of securing workers’ compensation and SSDI benefits can be highly complicated. A small error on an application or misunderstanding of requirements may result in delays, reductions, or denials. To avoid such outcomes, consult with work injury lawyers in Minnesota who are experts in the state and federal systems.
What can these professionals do for you?
Assessing Eligibility
A skilled attorney will evaluate your injuries, employment history, and medical documentation to determine whether you qualify for one or both benefits. This thorough eligibility assessment ensures your claim is viable and with strong, credible evidence.
Coordinating Benefits
A job injury lawyer in Minnesota will keep your applications for SSDI and workers’ compensation consistent. There must be no conflicting information that could jeopardize your approval.
Handling Appeals
If your claim is denied, an attorney helps you through the appeals process, presenting evidence and representing your interests at hearings. You get an advocate who fights for your rights.
Negotiating Settlements
Attorneys prioritize the alignment of all agreements with your long-term financial and medical needs. Professional guidance is crucial in avoiding premature or undervalued settlements from insurance companies or other parties involved.
Protecting You for the Long Term
Work injury lawyers in Minnesota also advise on how to structure benefit packages. Learn about tax implications, Medicare considerations, and more. By planning, you maintain financial security, access to care, and compliance.
Get All the Benefits You Deserve
Every employee deserves a safe environment. When accidents or medical conditions get in the way, workers’ compensation and SSDI will help you in your recovery and comeback journey. When you access them properly, you get the most out of them.
At Osterbauer Law Firm, our team is ready to champion your rights on your behalf. We have successfully handled numerous workers’ compensation settlements in Minneapolis and surrounding cities across Minnesota. Our professionals are here to take every step with you, from initial claims to final resolutions.
Call us today at (612) 334-3434 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let’s work together toward every benefit you have earned.