Most applicants who receive social security disability benefits meet the work requirements and definition of disability. However, there are special circumstances where other workers can also qualify for social security benefits even if they do not meet these requirements.

Workers who are Blind or Have Low Vision

The Social Security Administration typically finds a worker legally blind if:

• Their vision cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in the better eye
• Their field of vision is 20 degrees or less, even with a corrective lens
• Other medical conditions, combined with blindness, prevent them from working

Several special rules have been formed to recognize the severe impact of blindness on working ability. For instance, the monthly limit for blind people is typically higher than the limit for non-blind disabled workers. While this amount changes each year, the current amount is $1,640.

Disabled Widows or Widowers

Widows and widowers with disabilities can receive benefits as long as:

• They are between the age of 50 and 60
• The widow or widower meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability
• The disability began before the spouse’s death or within seven years after the death

Disabled Children

A disabled child under the age of 18 does not need to meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability if he or she qualified for benefits as a dependent. The child’s benefits typically stop at the age of 18 unless he or she is a full-time student in elementary or secondary school or is disabled.

For a child to continue to receive benefits after the age of 18, he or she must:

• Have a disability that began before the age of 22
• Meet the definition of disability for adults

Wounded Service Members

Military service members can receive expedited claims processing from Social Security. Benefits available through Social Security differ from those from the Department of Veterans Affairs and therefore require a separate application. The expedited process is used for uniformed service members who become disabled while on active military service on or after Oct. 1, 2002, regardless of where the disability occurs.

Social security disability cases involving special circumstances can be complex and confusing. Therefore, it is important to employ a social security disability attorney to help with the paperwork. In addition, retaining a social security disability lawyer can also improve your chances of having your claim approved. To speak to a social security lawyer today, fill out our free case review form on the right.