5 Things All Union Members Need to Know About Social Security Disability and Retirement
- You’ve paid into the system. You have a right to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Of every paycheck you have earned, 6.2% has gone into the Social Security trust fund for your retirement and disability.
- You can receive SSDI in addition to your full union pension. This can mean an extra $1500-2500 per month in benefits.
- Most union members suffer from an injury or medical condition that qualifies them for SSDI. Common conditions include: back pain, neck pain, shoulder, hand or knee issues, headaches, fatigue and carpal tunnel. Remember: your condition does not need to be jobrelated.
- You will receive Medicare within 24 months of being found disabled. Those who qualify for SSDI will also receive health insurance coverage under Medicare.
- You do not have to wait for early retirement. Avoid being penalized by collecting Social Security retirement at 62 and thus receiving a reduced rate and not being Medicare eligible. Fill out the contact form on this page to get assistance applying for SSDI.