Q: When can I file for social security disability benefits?
A: You can apply for social security disability benefits when you can no longer work, due to your condition. To qualify, the condition must be expected to prevent you from working for at least a year. As it often takes months for an initial decision to be made regarding a claim, make sure to submit your application for social security disability insurance as early as you can. If you are awarded social security disability insurance, you may be eligible for retroactive payments. Regardless of how quickly your application is processed, you will not be able to receive benefits until 6 months after your date of onset. You will not be awarded retroactive benefits for that period of time.
Q: How do I apply for social security disability insurance?
A: To submit a claim for social security disability, first contact your local Social Security office or apply online via the main Social Security web site. An interview with your claims representative will be scheduled. That initial appointment can usually be conducted by phone or in person, dependent upon what is easiest for you. Your claims representative will be your point of contact through the application process and will assure that you fill out the appropriate paperwork. If you are unsure if you qualify for SSDI (social security disability insurance) or SSI (supplemental security income), your claims rep can help you. That representative can assist you with any submission for retroactive payments of social security disability, if applicable.
Q: Are there steps I can take that might help the chances that I will be awarded social security disability benefits?
A: Many claims for social security disability are denied during the initial review process. But there are many things you can do to increase the chances that your claim is awarded. The most important thing to do is assure that you have submitted your paperwork correctly. By staying in touch with your claims representative, you can easily know if anything required is missing. Having a supportive doctor who is willing to be your advocate can also help bolster your social security disability case. By providing a comprehensive statement regarding your condition, your doctor will give your claim a solid foundation. In addition to applying correctly and having a thorough statement from your doctor, assure that your medical records have been given to your claims representative. Waiting for requested medical files is the number one reason most claims are delayed. Lastly, be cooperative, meet deadlines and check in on your file. Finally, make sure you do not miss deadlines for paperwork, keep in touch with your claim representative to know where your file is in the process and always be courteous (no matter how frustrated you may get at times.)