Celebrating Independence: What SSD Benefits Mean for Your Financial Freedom

When we think about July 4th, most of us envision fireworks and backyard barbeques, which are both great ways to celebrate. But it’s also important to remember the meaning of this holiday, which is “independence.” Independence Day is a lot more than a 1996 movie about aliens trying to invade Earth! More commonly referred to as the Fourth of July, Independence Day marks the historic date in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was approved by congress. The declaration stated that the American colonies were seeking freedom from Great Britain and wanted to become a free country. It represents the birth of the United States of America as an independent nation.

The Importance of Independence

Independence is a great thing, not only for a country, but for us as individuals. The ability to do things for yourself and make your own decisions without help or influence from other people is engrained in the human spirit. Unfortunately, there are many ways people can lose their independence. Seniors who cannot care for themselves may need the help of others to perform even the most basic tasks. Similarly, people who are severely injured or disabled must rely on others for daily living. However, losing one’s independence should not mean the loss of one’s dignity. In fact, one of the most important pieces of advice given to caregivers is to help their loved ones maintain as much independence as possible, for as long as possible.

The Role of SSD in Independence

When someone loses their ability to work due to a disability or medical condition, it impacts both independence and personal dignity. That’s why Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is so important. It provides benefits to qualified workers and their families, as well as access to health insurance from Medicare. SSD benefits provide money to cover basics like food, clothing and housing, allowing someone to maintain their independence. Whether the illness or injury is temporary (short-term disability) or permanent (long-term disability), these benefits are a vital safety net, allowing people to pay bills and provide for their families when they are unable to work. In other words, it provides basic financial freedom.

Did you know that 1 in 4 working adults will become disabled before reaching retirement age? Unfortunately, many workers are unprepared to lose their income or afford unexpected medical expenses. Without SSD, this type of loss can be devastating for employees and their families.

How Do I Know if I Qualify for SSDI Benefits?

To be eligible for SSDI benefits, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. You can learn about eligibility here. Of course, even if you meet the eligibility requirements, it can be a difficult process to navigate on your own and many claims are not approved. Studies have shown that individuals represented by lawyers are three times more likely to be approved for disability benefits than those who represent themselves.

Let Us Help

The experienced attorneys at The Disability Guys have helped tens of thousands of clients win benefits from the N.Y. Workers’ Compensation Board, the U.S. Social Security Administration, and City/State Retirement Disability Programs. From drafting and filing a claim, to representing you in court, we are dedicated to helping you get the benefits you deserve – so you can maintain your independence. If you or someone you love is unable to work due to a disability, call us for a free consultation at (866) 205-2415.

Five Fun Facts about the Fourth of July

  1. Americans will eat 150 million hotdogs over the July 4th
  2. Only two men signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 – Charles Thompson and John Hancock. The other 54 delegates signed over the course of the next month.
  3. According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, Americans spend more than $1 billion on fireworks each year.
  4. Fireworks date back to 1777. John Adams wrote in a letter to his wife, Abigail, that he wanted Independence Day to be celebrated with pomp, parade, shows and “illuminations.”
  5. July 4th was not declared an official holiday until 1870, nearly 100 years after the nation was founded.

(Source: https://cantonrotary.org/stories/15-fun-facts-about-the-fourth-of-july)

Happy Fourth of July!