Applying For SSD When You Can No Longer Work
Brian O Sutter
Social Security Disability
Most people dream of the day when they can finally retire from their job and relax. Sometimes, however, that “retirement” comes in an unexpected form when an illness or injury causes a permanent disability that cuts short a person’s working capability. Becoming Permanently Disabled
Those who can no longer work due to a disability that is expected to last for at least one year, or result in death, are eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. The amount of SSD benefits that a person can receive is based on work history and previous earnings from employers who paid taxes to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
SSD is not for people who have short-term injuries or illnesses, nor for those who can still perform lesser jobs. The most common disabilities that are recognized by the Social Security Administration as being permanent include (but are not limited to):
• Immune system disorders
• Musculoskeletal system disorders
• Cancer
• Hearing loss
• Mental disorders
• Speech loss
• Neurological disorders
• Vision loss
• Digestive tract problems
These conditions can cause interruption of daily functions that can be permanently disabling when it comes to working a regular job.
Applying For SSD
There are three ways in which you can apply for SSD benefits: online, in person, or on the telephone. No matter which way you choose to apply, you will need to provide as much personal information about you and your disability as possible. Before applying be sure that you have the following information at hand and available:
• Social security number
• Address and previous addresses
• Current and past marital information
• Information about your disability
• List of all doctors you have seen, plus contact information
• Details of the treatments you have received
The more information you have, the better the SSA can assist you. You will likely be asked to provide physical copies of medical evaluations and treatment plans, and you might even be asked to see other doctors or professionals. Cooperation is key when dealing with the SSA to ensure that you receive benefits.
Persistence Pays Off
The number of applicants who receive SSD upon their first application are slim; only about 35% in the state of Florida. When it comes to first appeals, about 85% are denied a second time. This is common all over the U.S., however. In fact, first-time approvals are so uncommon that many people are under the assumption that every person who applies for SSD is denied at least once before they are approved.
Being denied SSD benefits should not deter someone from continuing to try. Most people must apply several times before finally receiving the SSD benefits that they are entitled to. Once benefits are received, it can make a large difference in the way life can continue with the addition of this financial support.
Experience Pays Off
An experienced social security lawyer can help you file your SSD claim right from the start. They know the right information to have for the specific medical condition that pertains to your case, and they can represent you at your disability appeal hearing.
When those applying for SSD have legal representation, their cases are more likely to be approved. We’ve been handling SSD claims in Sarasota and Charlotte counties for years, and we know just what it takes to get your claim approved without spending forever on appeals. Contact our office for help with your SSD claim today.