Every year in the fall, the Social Security Administration (SSA) releases its annual “Fact Sheet” providing updates on earning limits, benefit amounts, and more. It is important to stay informed about how Social Security will be changing in 2020 so you know what you should expect to be paid and what it takes to qualify for benefits.
If you are considering applying for benefits or have had your disability claim denied, we recommend that you reach out to one of our Virginia Social Security Disability lawyers for a risk-free legal consultation.
Cost of Living Adjustment
The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is a measurement of the inflation Social Security recipients have faced and represents the raise they will expect to receive for the following year. The average COLA has been about 1.4 percent within the past decade.
In 2020, both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will increase 1.6 percent for almost 69 million Americans. This is more than a percentage point below this year’s COLA (at 2.8 percent).
Also, the average estimated monthly Social Security benefits for all disabled workers will increase from $1,238 to $1,258.
Average estimated monthly Social Security benefits for a disabled worker and his or her spouse with more than one child will increase from $2,141 to $2,176.
Disability Income Threshold
In order to be eligible for disability benefits, your income cannot exceed the SSA’s substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. In 2020, that amount is $1,260 for non-blind disabled SSDI or SSI applicants, and $2,110 for blind SSDI applicants (the SGA does not apply to blind SSI applicants).
During a nine-month trial work period, an SSDI applicant can test his or her ability to work while continuing to receive disability benefits regardless of whether he or she exceeds the SGA limit. This means that in 2020, months in which you earn $910 or more will count towards your trial work period, up $30 from $880 or more a month in 2019.
Talk to a Virginia Social Security Disability Attorney
The lawyers from Kalfus & Nachman know what it takes to get you approved for Social Security Disability Insurance and/or Supplemental Security Income benefits. We can file your initial claim, attempt to get it marked for the Compassionate Allowance program, and file an appeal, if necessary.
We may also be able to pursue additional compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit or insurance claim on your behalf. If your injuries and impairments occurred because of an accident, let us review the case and determine if we can pursue compensation for your injuries.
Whether you’re preparing your first SSDI application, submitting your claim for Reconsideration, or appealing a rejected claim, you have a greater chance of success with the help of a knowledgeable lawyer.
If you live in the Norfolk, Hampton, Newport News, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach or Roanoke, Virginia, areas and need assistance filing your SSDI application or making an appeal, please contact Kalfus & Nachman PC by phone at (855) 880-8163 or through the form on this page to schedule a free consultation.
