Is this scary?
You probably know that applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) can be a long and grueling process. If you are unable to work for extended periods of time because of an injury or illness, this system is the only way to get financial assistance from the government. So why is it so scary? Once you understand how the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program works, and what the likelihood of being accepted is, applying for benefits doesn’t have to be terrifying. In fact, there are many good reasons why it makes sense to apply if you meet the criteria outlined by the SSA. By learning more about how SSDI works, understanding your chances of acceptance, and determining whether or not you qualify for benefits before filing your application you can greatly reduce the stress associated with this process. A good attorney can make this process stress free and easy.
What is the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program?
SSDI is a federal insurance program that pays out monthly benefits to people who have paid into the system over the course of their working lives. SSDI is meant for people who have paid into the program for a long time and are no longer able to work due to a long-term medical condition. In order to be approved, the SSA must be convinced that you will be unable to work for the rest of your life. Only SSDI can provide long-term financial assistance, but in order to qualify for benefits, you must be able to prove that you have a medical condition that makes it impossible for you to work. The agency will examine your medical records and employ a strict definition of what constitutes an “incapacity to work.” Many applicants are turned down, but if you use an attorney and are able to meet the requirements you can receive monthly payments for the rest of your life.
Who qualifies for SSD benefits?
There are several factors that go into the decision-making process when deciding on an SSD claim. The SSA will review your medical records, look at your employment history and work if you are currently working, and consider your age and income. Generally, you must meet all three of these factors in order to receive SSD benefits. Health – You must have a serious medical condition that makes you unable to work. This means that the condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Work – You must have earned at least enough money to theoretically qualify for benefits. If you have been working for less than 10 years, or only earn a low income, you may still qualify for SSD benefits. Age – You must be at least 40 years old unless you have a disability that occurred before the age of 22.
How to tell if you should apply for SSD benefits
If you’ve never been approved for benefits before, and you have a qualifying condition, you should apply as soon as possible. The application process can be long, and difficult, and the earlier you apply the more likely it is that you’ll get approved. Of course, applying with an attorney will greatly reduce the stress of the process. A trained well versed attorney will guide you through the application and should help you fill it out. If you’re unsure whether or not you should file an application, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to determine if you should apply. First, have you been diagnosed with a long-term condition that prevents you from working? If so, have you exhausted all other options for financial assistance? If you have a disability that prevents you from working, and you’ve been rejected from all other financial assistance programs, applying for Social Security Disability benefits is your last resort. If you are still unsure most disability attorneys offer a free consultation.
Why is it so Hard to Get a Yes from the SSA?
For the most part, the SSA is extremely thorough in its decision-making process for SSD applications. They want to make sure that people who need assistance are provided for, but they also want to make sure that only people who truly need assistance receive benefits. There are a few reasons why you might be denied benefits. First, you might not have provided accurate information on your application. Second, you might not have provided enough evidence to back up your claims. Third, your illness might not be severe enough to meet the SSA’s standards. With an attorney, you can be sure all those bases are covered. If you still get a denial your attorney can appeal that decision.
How long does the application process take?
The average time it takes for people to receive approval for SSD benefits is about three and a half months. You will receive notification in the form of a letter from the SSA telling you whether or not you have been approved. If you are denied benefits, your attorney can appeal the decision. The SSA will provide you with instructions on how to proceed. With COVID and work shortages, there may be a longer approval time.
Final thoughts
The number one thing you can do to make your application as strong as possible is to hire an experienced disability attorney. A good attorney will be able to help you along every step of the application process and will be able to maximize your chances of being accepted. They will gather all of your medical records, and be as thorough as possible on your application. Make sure, to be honest, and accurate in your application, but also be sure to include as many details as possible to support your claims. Applying for Social Security Disability doesn’t have to be scary after all.
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