Do you know what to do if you become disabled and can no longer work? Chances are, you will need to rely on Social Security Disability benefits to get by. It can be difficult to understand how the process works, but don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this article, we will discuss the basics of Social Security Disability benefits and how to apply for them.
What Is Social Security Disability?
Social Security Disability is a government benefits program that provides financial assistance to people who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. To qualify for benefits, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and paid into the system for a certain period of time.
If you become disabled and can no longer work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. The number of your benefits will depend on your earnings before you became disabled. Also, if you have dependents, they may be eligible for benefits as well.
How To Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits
If you think you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits, you can begin the application process online, over the phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. The best way to start is to go to the Social Security website and click on the “Apply for Disability” link.
You will be asked to provide information about yourself, your work history, and your disability. You will also need to have medical records or other documentation to support your claim. Once you have submitted your application, a disability examiner will review it and make a determination about whether your qualifications for disability benefit can be accepted. If you are approved for Social Security Disability benefits, you will receive a monthly payment that will help you cover your living expenses. The amount of your benefit will depend on your earnings before you became disabled. If you have dependents, they may also be eligible for benefits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
In addition to Social Security Disability benefits, you may also be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to people who are disabled, blind, or 65 years of age or older and have limited income and resources.
To qualify for SSI, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability, which is the same as for Social Security Disability benefits. In addition, you must have limited income and resources.
If you think you may be eligible for SSI, you can begin the application process online, over the phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. The best way to start is to go to the Social Security website and click on the “Apply for SSI” link.
What To Expect When Applying?
You will be asked to provide information about yourself, your work history, and your disability. You will also need to have medical records or other documentation to support your claim. Once you have submitted your application, a disability examiner will review it and make a determination about whether you qualify for benefits.
If you are approved for SSI, you will receive a monthly payment that will help you cover your living expenses. The amount of your benefit will depend on your earnings before you became disabled. If you have dependents, they may also be eligible for benefits.
SSDI Vs SSI
The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers two separate disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both programs provide financial assistance to people who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability, but there are some differences between the two.
Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal insurance program that is funded by payroll taxes. To be eligible for SSDI, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and paid into the system for a certain period of time.
Supplemental Security Income is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to people who are disabled, blind, or 65 years of age or older and have limited income and resources. Depending on your work history and financial need, you may be eligible for one or both of these programs.
Once You Apply, Check The Status Of Your Application
After you apply for disability benefits, you can check the status of your application online. You will need to create an account on the Social Security website. Once you have created an account, you will be able to log in and view the status of your application.
You can also call the SSA at 800-772-1213 to check on the status of your application. It’s critical to maintain track of your application and follow up if you haven’t heard from the SSA after a reasonable amount of time. Whether you apply for retirement benefits or any other type, you can always keep track of your application status. This will help ensure that your claim is handled in a timely fashion.
Appealing A Denial
If your application for benefits is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You will need to file a request for reconsideration within 60 days of the date you received the denial notice.
After your request for reconsideration is reviewed, you may be asked to attend a hearing before an administrative law judge. If you disagree with the judge’s decision, you can appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council.
If the Appeals Council denies your appeal, you can file a lawsuit in a federal district court.
The appeals process for Social Security benefits can be lengthy, so if your initial claim is denied, it’s important to seek legal counsel from an attorney who specializes in these types of cases. They will help increase the chances that your appeal is successful.
Now that you know a bit more about the Social Security disability benefits process, you can decide if you want to apply for benefits. If you do decide to apply, the best way to start is by going to the Social Security website and clicking on the “Apply for SSI” link. In that way, you can begin the process and get started on your path to receiving benefits.