What to Do to Increase Chances that Social Security Disability Application Will Be Approved
Posted 10/01/09
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. You are eligible if your injury will keep you from working for at least 12 months. 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. You are not eligible for your first benefits payment until the sixth month after the onset of your condition. You will not be awarded retroactive benefits for that period of time.
Q: How do I apply for social security disability insurance?
A: You can apply for social security disability benefits online at www.socialsecurity.gov or by calling Social Security at 800.772.1213. An interview with your claims representative will be scheduled. That interview can be done in person or via telephone. 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: A fair number of applications for social security benefits are not approved. You can, however, improve the likelihood that your application is approved. The most important thing to do is assure that you have submitted your paperwork correctly. Keeping contact with the claims representative assigned to your case can help with this task. 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.)
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