Did you know? Many people who elect to receive early retirement also qualify for SSD benefits.
A person who stops working due to medical issues after reaching age 62, but before reaching full retirement age, may also be eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits.
You may qualify for both Social Security disability benefits and Social Security retirement benefits if you meet certain criteria:
- You are unable to perform the type of work you have done in the last 15 years due to physical or medical reasons.
- You are between age 62 and your full retirement age.
- You have sufficient work credits. (You have worked in the last 5 years and you have worked 5 out of the last 10 years).
You should contact the Social Security Administration directly to file for these benefits, either at your local office or via their toll free number: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You can find your local office through the SSA Office Finder. You must elect the early retirement benefit prior to your full retirement age, and indicate that you have stopped working due to a disability or physical problem. You must also complete an application for Social Security Disability.
There are perks to obtaining Social Security disability benefits instead of reduced Social Security retirement benefits prior to full retirement age. The eligibility for Medicare benefits starts 24 months after the date you become disabled, instead of at age 65. Also, the monthly benefit amount for SSD is usually larger than the benefit amount for early retirement. The disability benefits you receive would then convert to retirement benefits once you reach full retirement age.
Harrisburg Social Security Disability Attorneys
At Metzger Wickersham, one of our experienced SSD attorneys would happy to speak with you and answer any questions you may have about qualifying for Social Security benefits. Our disability lawyers have used our knowledge and experience to help thousands of clients just like you. Contact us today to find out how we can assist. We have offices located in Harrisburg, Lancaster, Pottsville, Shippensburg, Wilkes-Barre, Williamsport, Frederick, and York, allowing us to conveniently serve clients throughout Pennsylvania.