How is LTD Different from SSI Disability?

If you have been injured on the job, you may be entitled to long-term disability (LTD) benefits. However, it is important to note where these benefits come from. Aside from social security disability, LTD compensation can also come from your employer's insurance company. As such, the criteria to receive such benefits may be different than what you expect them to be.

You may be entitled to SSI disability benefits based on your previous work history and how much you’ve paid into the system through FICA taxes. With LTD benefits, the amount that you may receive depends on how much you currently make. Furthermore, you may not be entitled to benefits if you quit your job, as they may be dependent on a current employer-employee relationship.

In some cases, you may be able to combine your social security and long-term disability benefits. However, it’s possible that your long-term benefits terminate when you start to receive disability benefits from the government. Conversely, you may not be eligible for social security benefits if you already have long-term disability insurance coverage.

That said, you are not guaranteed to receive long-term disability insurance. If neither the worker nor the employer carries coverage, the worker may have to rely on other benefits if he or she is out of work due to a serious injury. As each situation is different, it may be worthwhile to consult with an attorney prior to making a claim for either social security or long-term disability benefits.