Frequently Asked Questions About Social Security and Medicare What are the rules for getting a Social Security disability benefit?
Persons with a disability receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) based on their work record (certain dependents may also receive benefits). They must meet four conditions: - Inability to engage in substantial gainful activity because of a physical or mental impairment. This means an inability to do their previous work and also any other type of work considering age, education and experience, regardless of whether such work exists in their area.
- The impairment is determined by a doctor.
- The impairment is expected to result either in death or will last at least 12 consecutive months.
- The impairment must be the primary reason for the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity. Some work incentive or employment support programs exist; call the Work Incentives Connection, 651/632-5113, 800/976-6728, or 651/632-5110 (TTY) for information.
What is the waiting period to get on Social Security disability? When an application is approved, Social Security benefits will be paid for the sixth full month after the date the disability began. In many cases it takes much longer for the approval. How do I sign up for Medicare Part A and B if I am under age 65 and disabled? There is a 24-month waiting period for Medicare; after that, you are automatically on Medicare Part A and must reject Part B if it is not wanted. You may be able to qualify for Medical Assistance in the meantime, or may have to use COBRA coverage or The Minnesota Comprehensive Health Association (MCHA).
I am under 65 and have Medicare based on disability. I did not take Part B when I first enrolled in Medicare. I would like to add Part B when I turn age 65. How do I enroll in Part B? Will I have to pay a higher premium? Reaching age 65 creates a new enrollment period for a person on Medicare because of a disability. Therefore, there is no surcharge for not taking out Medicare Part B when eligibility for Part A was determined because of a disability at a younger age. I once had Medicare benefits because of a disability, but was able to go back to work so I lost the Medicare coverage. Now I am going to be 65. Can I purchase Medicare supplemental coverage without having a health screen? Yes. Minnesota Law allows a person who voluntarily disenrolls from Medicare Part B because of re-employment because of coverage under an employer health plan, to be eligible for another 6-month enrollment period for supplemental coverage when enrolling again in Medicare Part B. Do I have to be 65 or older to be eligible for the Minnesota Prescription Drug Program if I am disabled and on Medicare? Minnesota’s Prescription Drug Program generally accepts persons on Medicare, who are under 65, with income under 120 percent of the federal poverty guideline. How can I get a wheelchair and other medical equipment at low cost? Unless you are on Medical Assistance or General Assistance Medical Care, there is no public program to provide these. Some Goodwill Stores may carry them. Information: The Minnesota State Council on Disability (MSCOD) collaborates, advocates and provides information to expand opportunities, increase the quality of life and empower all persons with disabilities, including their families, government and private agencies, employers and the general public. Call 651/296-6785. This article was prepared by Tom Brick, Senior Federation member, formerly with Minnesota State Council on Disability.
The Minnesota State Council on Disability (MSCOD) collaborates, advocates, advises and provides information to expand opportunities, increase the quality of life and empower all persons with disabilities, including their families, government and private agencies, employers and the general public. Call 651/296-6785 or toll-free 1-800/945-8913 (V/TTY). Their website is www.disability.state.mn.us.
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