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Employee And Union Rights
Fighting For
Employee And Union Rights

Social Security Disability and Michigan workplace injuries

On Behalf of | Jun 25, 2015 | Social Security Disability Benefits for Injuries

While some Michigan residents are born with physical disabilities, others are disabled following an injury. The source of this injury varies from case to case and can include a car accident, slip-and-fall or other personal injury. In other situations, a workplace accident can cause the injury.

When a workplace injury occurs, people can be left unable to work and face serious medical debt. It can be difficult for people to understand where they can turn for help. In some cases, workers’ compensation may be a better bet for workers. Through workers’ compensation, insurance workers can be compensated for their expenses related to the workplace accident.

But, in other situations, the worker may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. According to the Social Security Administration, there are some key differences between workers’ compensation and SSDI benefits.

First, not every worker will qualify for SSDI benefits. SSDI benefits are only available to workers who have enough work history.

Second, not every workplace injury will qualify for SSDI benefits. While workers’ compensation benefits will cover all injuries that occur in a workplace — even if a worker is only temporarily disabled — SSDI benefits are only for long-term disabilities. These benefits are only available for people who are not able to engage in any substantial gainful activity for at least one year, or who have something that will end in the worker’s death.

Finally, workers’ compensation benefits are available right away, whereas there is at least a five-month waiting period for SSDI benefits. When an injured worker has decided that SSDI benefits are right for the person, a lot of work still has to be done. The application process can be legally complex and rigorous. An attorney can help people throughout this process.

Source: SSA.gov, “Workers’ Compensation,” accessed on June 24, 2015

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