I was injured at work and I’m thinking of applying for workers comp and social security disability. What is the difference?

Question: I was injured at work and I’m thinking of applying for workers comp and social security disability. What exactly is the difference and how do I know whether I’m eligible for file for social security disability.

Response: Workers compensation is a no-fault insurance program in which your employer must pay lost wages, medical bills and other expenses that result from your injury. All covered employers are eligible for worker’s compensation. Social security disability is a program available to qualified people who are unable to work as a result of a covered disability. To be eligible for social security disability, you must have worked for a minimum amount of time at a qualified job, and you must have a disability that is included on the social security department’s list of disabilities or that is as severe as covered disabilities on the list. In some cases, you may be eligible for both workers compensation and social security disability. If you have questions about applying for social security disability, or about the potential benefits you can receive, you should contact a qualified social security attorney who can help you file a claim and evaluate your situation.

Answered by Christy Rakoczy

Additional Resources: Guide to Social Security Disability

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