Filing a Successful Disability Benefits Claim
How to Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
People who have become disabled and are unable to work, may have the option of filing for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Applicants must provide proof of identification and age using documentation such as their Social Security number and birth certificate. Medical records that document the cause of the disability that prevents an applicant from working must also be included with the application.
The following information also needs to be submitted to the Social Security Administration (SSA):
contact information for the attending physicians who have been treating the applicant’s condition
documentation of the applicant’s work history including W2 forms, tax returns, along with a description of the type of work that the applicant had done.
Applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may be available for people who don't have the work history to qualify for SSDI. These benefits are available to disabled people who have limited assets and income.
You will have to show proof of your assets and income when you apply for SSI. If either are too high, you may not be able to receive SSI benefits.
Where to File Your Disability Claim
You can file your claim for Social Security benefits in the following ways:
Online application
Over the phone
In person
With a disability lawyer
Important Information For Your Disability Application
The application must also include a detailed explanation of how the medical condition prevents the applicant from being able to perform their work duties. Even if the criteria for receiving SSDI benefits are met, any errors or missing information can trigger an immediate denial, in fact more than 65-70% of applications for SSDI benefits are initially denied.
The Five Month Waiting Period
There is a five month waiting period which means that monthly payments will not be covered for the first five months after the date of the onset of the disabling condition. You can still file for disability benefits immediately following the incident that causes your disabling condition but the coverage period won't begin until the five month waiting period runs out. This means that benefit payments will not be paid for the first five months after the SSA decides your disability began.
Disability Appeals for Denied Disability Claims
There is an appeal process for applications that have been denied by the SSA which involves four possible steps that can be taken ranging from an initial reconsideration stage to a federal lawsuit challenging the denial of benefits.
Legal Representation for Your Social Security Disability Claim
Given the likelihood of an initial denial and the many steps involved in an appeal, representation by an attorney experienced with disability law can greatly increase an applicant’s chances of success. This goes for an initial application for disability benefits or for an appeal when an initial claim has been rejected. In many cases, an applicant for social security disability will be eligible for benefits but have their claims denied because of missing or incomplete information. Disability lawyers can be of great help in ensuring that all information required the the SSA is included in your initial application or appeal. Having the right representation could increase your chances of winning disability benefits.
Jackson Law: Disability Attorney
Forrest Jackson is a disability attorney who can help you navigate the Social Security disability application process whether you are filing your initial claim or appealing a denial of your benefits. As an experienced disability attorney, he has seen over and over, the reasons for denials and approvals for disability benefits and knows how the Social Security Administration works. Jackson Law has experience representing disabled clients, advocating vigorously for their social security benefits.
For more information on disability benefits, please take a look at our FAQ or contact us anytime.