Do You Qualify for Social Security Disability?

If you find yourself unable to work due to your health, you may find yourself struggling to pay your bills. Whether you are the primary breadwinner or not, losing your income might be enough to change your whole life. You may be looking for ways to get some income in your pocket while you are also taking care of yourself medically and Social Security Disability may be the answer that you have been looking for. However, you have to figure out if you qualify.

Here Are Some Things That You Need to Know

• You must be disabled. This means that you are unable to do any substantial work because of your medical condition. To be considered disabled, this should last at least a year (or lead to your death).
• Children can also qualify for Social Security Disability. He or she must have a condition that limits their activity. It also needs to last at least a year (or result in death).
• You must have paid Social Security taxes for a certain amount of time. This depends on your state, though you need to have paid in for a significant amount of time, to take advantage of this program.
• If injured, apply for this benefit. However, others can also apply. Widows may also apply, as well as the adult children of the worker who has become disabled. Parents can apply for their disabled children.
• You can’t be able to work. If your Disability can allow you to work with restrictions, you won’t qualify. However, if your work doesn’t have a position that you can fill, or you can’t do significant work at all, you should look into Social Security Disability.

What Should You Do if You Qualify?

• Begin the process right away. It can take a few weeks or months to go through the paperwork for Social Security Disability. Thus, begin as soon as you find out that you can’t work like you used to.
• You will have to fill out an application. You will have to fill out an application that will be reviewed to see if you are eligible for this benefit.
• Your doctor will also have to fill out a form. This will include information about your condition, how long you have had it, and how it is limiting your ability to do your job. If hospitalized or you receive diagnostic testing, this goes in your file. Your treatment plan is also important to determine what your outcome looks like.
• During this time, no one asks your doctor if you are disabled. Instead, he or she will have to discuss your abilities to do your job (or even simple tasks). He or she may be asked if you can sit for a long period, if you can lift objects, or if you can even remember how to do basic tasks.
• Always remember that you can appeal the decision if you don’t qualify. Just because you got a no, it isn’t the end. You can appeal, though you may want to involve a lawyer first.

Learn More About Social Security Disability

If diagnosed with a disease or illness that keeps you from supporting yourself and your loved ones, then give The Keener Law Firm a call. We can talk with you during your FREE thirty-minute consultation to better understand your situation. At that time, we can determine if you have a case and how we can help you get the compensation you deserve. Fill out a contact Us form on our website or give us a call at (770)-955-3000 today.