How long do I have to wait after I submit an application to receive a decision?
The typical wait time for receiving a decision after filing an SSD application is around 6 months. There is a mandatory waiting period of 5 months, so don’t expect to hear anything sooner. In some cases, applicants may be eligible to receive retroactive SSD benefits, which pay a certain amount based on when the disability occurred.
Is my disability severe enough to receive SSD benefits?
Your attorney can help you to understand the specific requirements mandated by the Social Security Administration concerning physical and mental impairments. SSD disabilities recognized under the program include a wide variety of diseases, injuries, and mental/neural disorders. If your medical problem is not found on the list of impairments, your SSD lawyer can help you establish a strong case for the limitations imposed by the condition.
How much will I receive each month if approved for SSD benefits?
The amount of your monthly benefit checks will depend on your prior income and your total lifetime earnings. Factors like other sources of income or supplemental disability insurance may affect your total amount. Please talk to a skilled SSD attorney for help estimating what your claim is worth.
Is special consideration given to applicants with severe or terminal disabilities?
Yes. There are a list of serious conditions and terminal illnesses given special attention under the Social Security Administration’s Compassionate Allowance initiative. Individuals with certain types of impairments may be able to achieve SSD approval in a very short amount of time, with acceptable confirmation by a medical professional.
What can I do I am denied SSD benefits?
There are several stages of SSD appeals you can use after receiving an unfavorable judgment from the Social Security Administration. Since most first-time applications are denied, it is very common for disabled workers to try appealing two or more times before winning the benefits they deserve.
If you would like to talk to a legal professional about your Social Security Disability claim, please contact an SSD lawyer in your area to get started.
Am I eligible for Supplemental Security Insurance benefits?
If you meet the Social Security Administration’s low income qualifications and have a qualifying disability or are over age 65, SSI benefits may be available to you.
Your application will be reviewed by claims examiners with your local SSA office and/or the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office very closely, so it is important that you provide all of the necessary paperwork at the time of your application submission.
Do I need a lawyer to get SSI benefits?
There are many reasons why you should hire a lawyer to handle your SSI claim. While a lawyer is not mandatory to apply for Supplemental Security Insurance benefits, having one to guide you through the process can help you get the benefits you so greatly need. A lawyer can also help keep your claim on track, make sure your application is error-free, and ensure your qualifications are flawlessly represented.
Your SSI attorney can also dispel any myths about SSI you may have heard and prepare you for the appeals process should your claim be denied.
How do I apply for SSI benefits?
You will need to apply for SSI benefits in person at your local Social Security office, or have a skilled SSI attorney help you file. To get a head start, you may wish to fill out the Adult Disability Report on the Social Security Administration’s website.
What are my options if I am denied SSI benefits?
You are permitted to appeal a benefits denial, with the following 4 stages of appeal: Reconsideration, Appeal Hearing, Appeals Council, and Federal District Court. In order to dispute a denial, you must notify the Social Security Administration in writing before you file the appeal.
If I am approved for SSI, how much will my benefit checks be?
The amount you are eligible to receive will depend on several factors, including your current income, your assets, and your type of disability. You can talk to an experienced attorney to get a rough estimate of how much you might expect to receive once your claim is approved. Your lawyer can also help present your SSI case in a manner that maximizes your total monthly allowance.
For personalized guidance through the application and appeals process, search for an SSI attorney in your area.
Please explore our website and if you have questions or need further assistance, please e-mail the SSD Law Resource Center by completing the form to the right. We are here to help.