If you have an injury, disease, or other medical condition that prevents you from working for a prolonged period of time or even permanently, you may be able to claim Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits. However, your situation and condition must satisfy certain standards in order get approval for these benefits.
A Miramar Beach Social Security Disability lawyer could help you navigate this challenging and sometimes confusing process. Perhaps you are seeking SSDI benefits for the first time, or have been denied on the first round and are looking to appeal. In either case, you should consult with a respected law firm that could ensure you submit the appropriate paperwork and all supporting documentation, and will advocate on your behalf throughout the entire case.
There are two primary types of Social Security programs that a person can apply for. Social Security Disability benefits are often confused with Supplemental Security Income, but there are distinct differences. Although not common, there may be scenarios where an individual can receive both types of benefits. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) generally concerns situations where the individual has extremely lean financial resources and is facing a disability or is of an age that prevents them from working. Payments of benefits will only depend on their financial needs and condition – and not their previous work history.
On the other hand, Social Security Disability refers to the benefits that individuals can receive because they have paid into the Social Security system. A person can pay into the system either as the employee of a company or as a self-employed individual. Any disability benefits received through this program will depend on the individual’s prior income and will not usually be disbursed until they have gone through a five-month waiting period. If approved, the recipient’s spouse and dependent children may also be able to receive benefits.
The applicant must have a medical need that makes them eligible for SSDI benefits. They must also be at least 18 years of age, but not more than their full retirement age as determined by the year of their birth. These benefits may cease if the disability ends. On the other hand, if they continue to be a beneficiary of Social Security Disability until their retirement age, they would then be eligible for the standard retirement benefits, but the disability benefits would terminate at that point.
There are a variety of medical conditions that can qualify someone to receive SSDI benefits, including various heart ailments, neurological disorders, musculoskeletal issues, cancers, and even certain kinds of psychological conditions. In addition to having a qualifying medical condition and having contributed to the Social Security system, the disability must prevent them from performing the means of employment they had prior to the disability, as well as other employment too.
The disability in question must also be present for 12 months or longer, or presumed to be fatal. It is advisable for any potential applicants to first to talk with a Miramar Beach attorney who has successfully handled Social Security Disability claims in the past.
It is best to work with an accomplished lawyer from the outset of the process, as it is not uncommon for these claims to be denied on the first try. Lack of supporting information such as detailed proof of the individual’s work history, medical condition, and work ability can lead to this outcome.
An attorney could carefully evaluate the applicant’s situation to help them understand what benefits they may be eligible for. Beyond gathering all documents and records needed by the Social Security Administration, such as the individual’s earnings history, medical records, and certifications by medical providers, a Miramar Beach attorney could make sure the application is detailed and the applicant checks every appropriate box.
An attorney could also represent the applicant’s interests if the matter proceeds to a disability hearing or if they need to appeal an unsuccessful claim.
Many people have questions about qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits – an attorney could evaluate your situation and guide you in the right direction. Providing comprehensive evidence of your condition and qualifying factors for SSDI is vital to the outcome of your case.
Missing a single detail or document could result in costly delays or even denial of your application. A Miramar Beach Social Security Disability lawyer could help you avoid such pitfalls. Call our law firm now to discuss your case.