What To Do Before Applying For Social Security Disability Benefits
The decision to apply for social security disability (SSD) benefits should not be made lightly. The disability process can be difficult and lengthy, but the following tips can make the overall experience easier.
Evaluate your situation. If you are under the age of 50, you will need to prove that a medical condition prevents full-time work activity in any job, not just the work you have done before. The regulations differ according to age and it generally gets easier as a person ages. See What’s Age Got To Do With It for more information about how age impacts a disability determination. Also, prepare for a long wait when applying for social security disability benefits. Some claims are approved at the initial level within months, but other claims can take years requiring multiple appeals.
Get treatment. If you have not had treatment for your conditions, it will be difficult to prove your claim. Consistent treatment documents your diagnoses, your attempts to get better, and your limitations. Treatment throughout the entire process, if possible, is best.
Consult with your doctor. Filing for social security disability is easier with the support of your doctor. Your doctor can help you understand if your conditions are chronic, temporary and/or disabling. A supportive doctor might be able to provide written statements for your claim.
Consult an experienced social security disability attorney. An attorney can help you determine which benefits you might be eligible for, explain the process, evaluate the viability of your claim, and let you know what paperwork is needed for your disability application. Social security disability attorneys often work on a contingency fee which means that they only receive a fee if you win your claim. Most attorneys will offer a free initial consultation.
For some people, applying for social security disability benefits is the only real option. Call us or complete our free disability claim evaluation today if you are considering filing for social security disability benefits
