The government requires an enormous amount of information to evaluate an applicant’s eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits. This application process seems overwhelming and causes many people give up their claim if their Initial Application is denied. Please don’t do this!
The majority of initial disability applications filed are denied. Of those denied at the first or second appeal level, the statistics show more than half of those denied claims are won at the hearing level. But you should be aware that, if you are denied at any level of the application process, you should obtain an attorney immediately to determine what is needed in your case to obtain a favorable decision as quickly as possible.
Here are some helpful steps to take when initially applying for disability benefits:
Apply as soon as you and your doctor believe you are unable to work for at least one year or more. Many people wait months and sometimes years to apply. This only delays your ability to obtain the money you need to survive when not working. The application process and delay in receiving a Social Security Disability hearing date can take on average more than two years.
When you make the decision with your doctor’s support to apply, you have two choices:
- Call your local Social Security Office and schedule an appointment to complete the Initial Application and then visit the local office, or
- Click Here: to go online to the Social Security website and complete the Initial Application.
Before attempting to complete the Initial Application, gather the necessary documents asked for such as an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, original or certified copy of your military discharge papers, W-2 forms and/ or tax return if self-employed from last year, worker’s compensation information if applicable, Social Security numbers for you and family, bank account numbers, list of jobs and dates employed at each job for the past 15 years and information of all doctors you have seen and any medical records you have.
Take your time completing your Initial Application. It is very important that you answer each question in as much detail as necessary to describe all of the pain, physical and mental limitations and their affects on your daily activities. Make sure to list every illness, injury and condition you have. Don’t forget to mention all of the adverse side effects of all of your medications as well. If you are applying in person at the local Social Security office, make a copy and complete the Initial Application and Disability Report before you visit the Social Security Administration Office. This will ensure that you will have time to carefully complete the application without feeling nervous or rushed.
Now if you still feel overwhelmed by this information, please don’t hesitate to contact my office so that we can provide you with whatever additional help you may need. Do not delay in applying for the Social Security benefits you deserve. Consultations in my St. Petersburg office are always free.
Click Here: for a checklist to determine if you may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits.
Comments