Can I Receive Both FECA & Social Security Disability Benefits?

Social security disability claim, MD, USA

Federal Workers’ Compensation Law Firm

Federal workers are often entitled to compensation if they are injured in a work-related incident. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, and vocational training. However, some federal workers may also be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits if your injury prevents you from working, whether that be in the short or long term. Some federal employees may even be eligible to receive both federal workers’ compensation and Social Security disability benefits at the same time. If you believe you may be eligible for both of these programs, contact our personal injury attorneys at Aumiller Lomax LLC today. Our law firm has experience handling FECA claims, and can help you understand how those programs interact with one another.

Federal Workers’ Compensation vs. Social Security Disability Benefits

While both federal workers’ compensation and Social Security disability benefits are intended to help those who can no longer work due to a disability, there are some key differences between the two programs. Federal workers’ compensation is designed to provide financial assistance to employees who are injured on the job, while Social Security disability benefits are reserved for those who have a long-term or permanent disability that prevents them from working.

In order to qualify for federal workers’ compensation, you must be injured while performing your job duties. Your injury does not need to be work-related in order to qualify for Social Security disability benefits; however, your disability must be expected to last at least one year or result in death. Additionally, you must have worked long enough and paid enough into the Social Security system to qualify for benefits.

Another key difference between the two programs is that federal workers’ compensation is typically only available to those who are employed by the federal government, while Social Security disability benefits are available to all U.S. citizens.

Can You Get Both at the Same Time?

In some cases, federal workers may be eligible to receive both federal workers’ compensation and Social Security disability benefits at the same time. However, there are certain circumstances that must be met in order for an individual to collect both types of benefits. Our personal injury law firm can evaluate your case and help you determine the best course of action for you and your family.

Benefits of Social Security Disability

Social Security disability benefits can provide crucial financial assistance to those who are unable to work due to a long-term or permanent disability. Benefits can help to cover the costs of medical care, housing, and other essential expenses. Additionally, SSD benefits can help to ensure that you and your family have a stable income.

The Application Process

The application process for federal workers’ compensation and SSD benefits are similar in many ways. Both programs require that you complete an extensive amount of paperwork and provide medical documentation to support your claim. Additionally, both programs may require you to undergo a medical examination to determine the severity of your condition and whether or not you are capable of working.

The last thing you want to worry about while dealing with your injuries is whether or not you will qualify for benefits. Our knowledgeable and experienced personal injury lawyers can help guide you through the application process for FECA and ensure that you are doing everything possible to increase your chances of approval. We do not represent claimants in SSD cases, but we can certainly provide guidance on how the two systems interact with each other. We will fight to get you the benefits and compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move on with your life.

Federal Workers’ Compensation and SSD Denials

It is not uncommon for initial applications to be denied. If your application for federal workers’ compensation or SSD benefits has been denied, you should not give up hope. There are many reasons why an application could be denied, such as missing information or a lack of medical evidence.

If your application has been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process can be complex, and it is often in your best interest to have an attorney represent you. This will also help your claim be processed even faster, so you can start to utilize your benefits more quickly. Our firm has lengthy experience with the appeals process for FECA claims, and we can help you navigate the system and give you the best chance of winning your appeal.

Loss of Social Security Disability Benefits

There are several things that can cause you to lose your Social Security Disability benefits. They include:

  • An improvement in your medical condition
  • Returning to work
  • Becoming incarcerated
  • Getting an increase in income
  • Reaching retirement age

Why You Need a Federal Workers’ Comp Attorney

The process of applying for federal workers’ compensation or SSD benefits can be complex, time-consuming, and frustrating. It is not uncommon for applications to be denied, even when the individual has a valid claim. There are credits or set offs that need to be considered when you are eligible under both systems. Aumiller Lomax has experience with the federal workers’ compensation, and we can help you navigate the process.

Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a federal workplace accident or you are having trouble getting the benefits you need from FECA, contact Aumiller Lomax today.