Yes, if you are receiving Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits, you can take a vacation. In addition, the Social Security Administration acknowledges that these benefits are designed to assist individuals with disabilities and do not restrict travel. You should, however, consider potential additional costs for healthcare services and other considerations related to your disability as you travel.
If you need more information about this or another matter concerning disability insurance, contact Marc Whitehead & Associates, Attorneys at Law, LLP. We are dedicated to ensuring our clients get the disability benefits they deserve. Our highly experienced Social Security disability lawyers have helped clients all over the U.S. Call us for a free and confidential legal consultation.
Avoid Activities That Push the Boundaries of Your Disability
Traveling while on SSDI benefits requires careful planning. Some people may engage in surfing, rock climbing, scuba diving, and other physically demanding activities. However, your vacation will likely be different from this, especially if you suffer from a serious physical or mental health impairment. Activities such as relaxing on the beach, going to spas, and staying in hotels are things most people can enjoy, even if a disability holds them back from gainful employment. Two important things to remember are to avoid activities that push the boundaries of what your disability allows and to follow your doctor’s orders diligently.
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Adhere to Your Doctor’s Recommendations
As noted above, if you receive SSDI benefits or are seeking them, it is always a good idea to consult with your doctor before taking a vacation or engaging in other activities that fall outside the norms of everyday life. Ask them if your disability allows you to travel on a plane, swim, go boating, hike, or engage in other recreational activities. If your doctor clears you, then enjoy your vacation. If not, it doesn’t mean you can’t go. You will need to amend your plans and limit your vacation to activities your doctor has approved. Be sure to adhere to their recommendations to avoid risks to your health or benefits.
Avoid Sharing on Social Media
SSDI claims and appeals are based on documented evidence of your medical condition. Pictures and posts describing your vacation could be used as evidence. Disability insurance carriers will be on the lookout for those who put their health at risk and engage in activities that could further compromise their health and limitations. Proceed with caution before posting on social media. Even if you remained well within your limitations, you never know how others will interpret the activities and events you participated in while on vacation.
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Contact Marc Whitehead & Associates if You Have Questions
A disability shouldn’t stop you from going on vacation. By following your doctor’s orders and avoiding activities that lie outside the physical or mental limitations of your disability, you can enjoy your holiday without any worries about losing your SSDI benefits.
When you need legal advice regarding an SSDI claim or appeal, our team at Marc Whitehead & Associates is here to help. Based in Houston, Texas, we serve clients nationally. Our law firm was founded on the principles of skill, integrity, and professionalism. Marc Whitehead is a double board certified attorney with over 30 years of experience handling SSDI claims and appeals.
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