CAN I APPLY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY RETIREMENT AND SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY AT THE SAME TIME?

Yes.  If you meet certain criteria, you may apply for Early Social Security Retirement and Disability at the same time.  You should always discuss this option with an attorney first, however, so that you do not endanger your entitlement to benefits.

While there may be an advantage of having some income from collecting Early Retirement from THE Social Security ADMINISTRATION while waiting for your Disability determination (which can take approximately MONTHS), there are risks to applying for both programs at the same time. If you loose your Disability claim, you will be stuck receiving the reduced Retirement amount forever.

If you win your Disability claim, it will depend on when the Social Security Administration decides you became disabled. Your benefits may still be reduced, depending on this.

You should discuss your options with a lawyer before you apply with the Social Security Administration.