Social Security disability benefits are usually designated for people who have a current injury that is expected to last for a certain period of time. However, if you were previously disabled and have recovered, there is a chance you can receive a limited amount of assistance. To qualify for and receive those benefits, you need to know more about closed period benefits. 

What Are Closed Period Benefits?

If you were disabled for at least 12 months in the past and have recovered, you can apply for closed period benefits. The benefits are known as closed period because you are only compensated for the period in which you were disabled. For instance, if you were disabled for 13 months, underwent physical therapy, and now working again, you can possibly apply for closed period benefits. Before applying, you need to ensure you meet the qualifications.

What Are the Qualifications for Benefits?

In order to be eligible for benefits, you must apply within the 14-month period following the end of your disability. If you fail to do so, your application for benefits will be denied. 

In addition to filing within the period allowed, you have to meet all of the requirements that would normally apply to a Social Security disability case. For instance, you have to prove during the period of your disability that your income did not exceed the substantial gain activity level set by the Social Security Administration, or SSA. The substantial gain activity level refers to the amount you can earn during a month. The amount you could earn monthly is $1,090 as of August 2015. The amount can change, so check before applying. 

You also have to present documentation that proves that you were unable to work during the time period you were considered disabled. Part of that documentation involves completing the disability report form, which asks exactly how your disability has impacted your ability to work. Although you can work now, you need to focus on the period in which you could not work. Be very thorough since the SSA cannot send you to get medical examination to determine the extent of your disability since you have already recovered.

Whether or not you will be successful in your bid to collect closed period benefits depends on a number of factors, including the evidence that you submit. To increase your odds of approval, contact an experienced law firm like Duncan Disability Law SC to help guide you through the application process.