Do you need to file a Social Security disability claim but don’t know where to start?
Have you tried to start the claim but felt overwhelmed by the amount of steps and information requested?
We hear you. Disability claims are complex enough to stress anyone.
However, filing a flawless claim is crucial to ensure a successful case.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know before filing your SSDI claim. We’ll cover everything, from eligibility requirements to different types of disability benefits and your chances of winning disability with a lawyer.
What Are The Requirements To Receive SSDI?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers financial assistance and healthcare insurance to citizens with severe disabilities.
One of their main disability benefits programs is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
SSDI provides monthly payments to help individuals make ends meet when they can no longer work. Those who qualify for SSDI are also eligible for Medicare or Medicaid health insurance.
Who qualifies for SSDI?
The SSA has a strict eligibility criteria, which include:
- Having a health impairment that meets the SSA’s definition of disability.
- Your disability prevents you from performing your work (or getting a new job).
- The impairment is expected to last 12 months or longer.
- You have collected enough work credits through your work history—how much will depend on your age and work history.
Do you meet that criteria? Then, you are likely eligible for SSDI benefits.
What Happens If I Don’t Meet The SSDI Criteria?
One of the main reasons why individuals don’t qualify for SSDI is not having sufficient work credits.
Thankfully, the SSA designed another disability benefits program for individuals who don’t meet that requirement.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) aids people with disabilities and low income or resources.
You must still meet the rest of the criteria to receive this benefit. Having a qualifying disability that hinders your ability to work is not negotiable.
Additionally, since SSI was designed to help people with low or no resources, there is an income/resources limit you cannot surpass.
In 2024, the SSI’s income caps are $1,971 per month for individuals and $2,915 per month for couples.
How Can I File A Social Security Disability Claim?
To receive disability benefits, you must file a formal claim.
Filling a claim for SSDI or SSI involves the same process. You can do it by phone, online, or at your nearest Social Security office.
Before you start the process, there are several documents and information you’ll want to gather and organize.
During the claim process, the SSA will ask you several questions regarding your personal life, work history, and health impairment. The organization will also request you to submit medical evidence to support your claim.
Failing to provide enough evidence that showcases your disability prevents you from working will hinder your chance of receiving disability benefits.
What Evidence Can I Submit To Enhance My Claim?
Substantial medical evidence leads to a successful claim.
When completing the claim, ensure to submit enough medical proof, such as:
- Diagnoses
- Test results
- Doctor’s reports
- Treatment records
- Medical notes
- Physician’s statement
All evidence you provide must be relevant to your case and up-to-date.
Never lie or exaggerate about your health condition. The SSA’s employees will review each piece of information you submit to confirm its veracity.
Don’t minimize the impact of your impairment either. Give factual and detailed examples about how your disability negatively affects your ability to work and perform daily life tasks.
Do I Need To Hire A Lawyer To Get Disability Benefits?
The SSA doesn’t require claimants to hire a lawyer to apply for disability benefits.
You can file the claim and complete the entire process on your own.
However, having legal assistance is highly recommended. Applicants who work with a professional attorney have 3 times more chances of securing disability benefits.
Why do you need a lawyer?
Obtaining Social Security disability benefits is an intricate and lengthy process that can extend to over 5 months.
Filing a claim tends to be complex for people without legal knowledge.
A simple misstep, such as a missing document, can lead to immediate denial. Then, you’ll have to file the claim from zero, further delaying the process. Working with a disability lawyer in San Francisco can help avoid such setbacks, as they’re familiar with the intricacies of the system.
An experienced disability lawyer ensures everything is in order. They’ll build a solid case with enhanced winning chances.
Benefits of working with a disability attorney:
- Successful Application: Many claimants get rejected because they fail to submit a complete application. Your lawyer will file an error-free claim for you.
- Gathering Evidence: Keeping track of and collecting medical records and treatment evidence can be challenging. A lawyer will take that task out of our hands.
- Appeal Representation: Was your claim denied, and you must appeal? An attorney will represent you at the court hearing.
- Free Case Review: Most law firms offer a free initial consultation where you can ask questions and tell them about your case.
- Only Pay If You Win: Disability lawyers work on contingency, meaning they only charge their fees if they win your case.
Ready To File A Successful SSDI Benefits Claim?
Social Security disability benefit claims can be complex. However, it’s essential you complete them fully, answer every question, and provide enough supporting evidence.
The stronger your application, the more chances you’ll have of smooth sailing towards disability benefits.
Do you need help filing the claim? We encourage you to schedule a consultation with a disability lawyer. They’ll review your case and enlighten you on the best steps to file a successful SSDI claim.
