Michigan lawyer explains how you can collect Social Security Disability and workers’ compensation at the same time.
Our lawyers want you to know about all potential disability benefits. In Michigan, you can collect Social Security Disability and workers’ compensation at the same time. Here is some information about each benefit and how to maximize what is paid. Please remember that every situation is different, so it is best to speak with a lawyer about your own potential case. There is never a charge to evaluate a case and you only pay if you win.
What is Social Security Disability?
Social Security Disability pays monthly benefits to individuals who cannot work because of sickness or injury. You can qualify for disability benefits under two separate programs. It does not matter how the sickness or injury started.
The first program is commonly known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and eligibility is based upon past work credits. When an individual is working and paying taxes, he or she is essentially buying disability insurance through the federal government. The amount received will be based upon what you have paid into the system. Medicare is also available under this program.
The second program is Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and eligibility is based upon financial need. Even if an individual has paid very little taxes or never worked before, he or she may qualify for monthly payments when certain income and asset restrictions are met. Individuals on SSI typically qualify for Medicaid.
What is workers’ comp?
Workers’ comp is a type of insurance that employers in Michigan are required to purchase. It is intended to protect you in the event of a work injury. You can get wage loss, medical treatment, and vocational rehabilitation. Disability must arise because of workplace activities.
Individuals on workers’ comp should receive 80% of their after-tax average weekly wage. This includes money for overtime, discontinued fringe benefits, and second jobs. There is no offset for Social Security Disability.
Medical is also paid 100% without co-payments or deductibles. This only covers treatment for your work-related injury and is not health insurance.
Can you collect both Social Security Disability and workers’ compensation at the same time in Michigan?
In Michigan, You can collect both Social Security Disability and workers’ compensation at the same time, however, there could be an offset and tax consequences. Make sure to report all workers’ comp payments to SSA so there is no overpayment.
The Social Security Administration will reduce your monthly amount if combined payments from SSDI and workers’ compensation exceed 80% of your average current earnings. You might even get taxed on this missing money. Many people avoid this offset by settling a workers’ comp claim for a lump sum payment. This money can then be prorated over your lifetime and will ensure maximum dollars are paid. You should also establish a Medicare Set-Aside so medical treatment is not interrupted.
Though you can collect Social Security Disability and workers’ compensation at the same time in Michigan but timing is very important so make sure to speak with an experienced lawyer right away. Avoid the SSDI offset with a settlement and make sure entitlement to Medicare is not jeopardized. Our attorneys are here to help!
Have questions about collecting social security disability and workers’ compensation at the same time in Michigan? Call now for a free consultation!
If you have suffered an injury at work in Michigan and have questions about collecting Social Security Disability and workers’ compensation at the same time, call now 844-418-1186 to speak with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 40 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand workers’ comp laws and what happens after someone has been hurt on the job. To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
I Got Hurt At Work, Will I Get A Settlement From Workers’ Comp?
