Often times I’m asked, “What is the difference between Social Security disability benefits and long-term disability or short term disability benefits?” The easy answer is that Social Security benefits are provided by the government through Social Security Administration, whereas long-term and short-term disability benefits as they are used are provided by a private insurance company. Now whether you purchased the policy separately or receive it through work, those benefits are paid for separate and apart from the government.

Social Security Disability benefits

You pay for Social Security disability insurance through your work. When you work and pay taxes, a portion of those taxes that are taken out for Social Security benefits goes to pay for Social Security disability. In order to receive Social Security disability, you must prove that you are insured under the Social Security Act, which has its own requirements – primarily if you have worked five out of the last ten years and most of your life you will be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. If you're preparing to apply for Social Security disability or appeal a claim denial, I've written a book 9 Mistakes that Can Disable Your Social Security Disability Claim. This is a helpful and informative guide that will guide you through some of the common mistakes and errors that lead to unfavorable Social Security Disability decisions. Don't make a costly mistake that could cause you to lose the benefits that you need to survive! I'd love to send you a copy. Just click here to receive your free copy of my book 9 Mistakes That Can Disable Your Social Security Disability Claim.

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Long-Term Disability benefits

For long-term disability benefits, you have to have a policy. That policy, again, can be provided by work or you purchased separately, but if you don’t have a separate policy that provides you with long-term or short-term disability benefits, then there are no long-term or short-term disability benefits that would be available to you.

What Is the Difference Between Social Security Disability and Long-term Disability Benefits?

Social Security Disability benefits

Long-Term Disability benefits

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