Tips to File for SSD Benefits
Do you have a disabling injury, terminal illness or medical condition that prevents you from working for at least the next 12 months? If so, you may be eligible to file a claim for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.
Assuming you meet the eligibility requirements, you will need to provide accurate and complete information about your claim. The Social Security Administration (SSA) needs your Social Security number, birth certificate, contact information for your treating doctors, your medical records and lab results, as well as a detailed work history. You'll also have to provide your most recent W2 or federal tax return.
The accuracy and completeness of your application makes a difference in the success of your claim. That's why we highly recommend you see one of our SSD benefits attorneys today. Otherwise, you risk losing the benefits you need and deserve.
If you are planning to file for SSD benefits on your own, the following tips can help you with the application process and significantly increase your chances of a getting SSD benefits allowed:
Be Sure to Answer Each Question Asked of You
When filling out your application for SSD benefits, it is vital that you fully answer each question, to the best of your ability. Do not rush through or leave questions partially finished. Even if you believe you have answered the question before, or provided the information on another form, include it on your application. If you fail to completely answer any of the questions, your application will be returned to you and the process will be delayed.
Provide All Requested Documentation
The SSA requires specific documentation for your application. If you do not provide the required documentation, the agency cannot make a decision on eligibility. This could lead to your application being returned and a long delay in the final decision. Even worse, your application for benefits could be denied.
If you are uncertain on what documents are needed, please call our SSD attorneys to help guide you.
Submit Precise & Thorough Medical Records
Medical records that document your injuries, illness or health condition are a critical part of a SSD claim. Medical records and reports from your doctor must explain the scope of your disability, and the limitations or restrictions presented by the condition. Without that information, the SSA will not have the evidence it needs to determine your eligibility for benefits.
Even if are suffering from a health condition that qualifies, a failure to provide the right medical records for your claim will bring the process to a halt. You need the benefits now, and these delays can put you in a difficult financial position.
In many instances, updated medical records may have to be periodically submitted during the review process. The more complete your medical records, the more likely it is that your benefits will be allowed.
Hire SSD Benefits Attorneys to Help You with Your Application
Once your application has been submitted, the agency estimates it will take between three and five months for you to receive a decision. Hiring a skilled attorney immediately can save you from the delays associated with an incomplete application, or a failure to provide the correct documentation substantiating your claim. Avoid the frustration and financial difficulties by getting the help of a lawyer from the start.
A skilled attorney from our firm will assist you to:
- Review your file and determine if any required information is missing
- Gather the evidence the agency requires
- Get your forms submitted correctly and completely the first time
- Request a hearing on your behalf or an on-the-record (OTR) decision to be made based solely on your medical records, if your benefits were denied.
In rare instances, you may be able to expedite an approval of benefits for conditions considered critical or for a "dire need." Quicker decisions can be received in cases where the disabled individual has a terminal illness, military service casualty, compassionate allowance or other dire need.
If your SSD case is critical or your situation meets the definition of dire need, an attorney can help you gather letters from family and friends, unpaid bills, foreclosure notices, eviction notices, evidence of expired health insurance coverage, bank statements, delinquent medical bills and other documents which can all be used to support your claim.
Sources:
- Social Security Administration: Disability Planner: What We Mean By Disability
- SSA: Social Security: Disability Benefits
- SSA: How long does it take to get a decision after I apply for disability benefits?