People put off applying for SSD for a variety of reasons, all of which are perfectly understandable. Dealing with a disability or illness can be life-consuming, and many people do not have the extra time or energy to devote to making sense of the application process. However, if you qualify for benefits, it’s important to apply as soon as possible to get the assistance you need. The following are five reasons that hold people back:
Confused or overwhelmed by the process
Sometimes, people do not know where to start. Gathering forms, filling out applications and reports, and trying to figure out which documents are necessary can be difficult for anyone. Once a person starts gathering up all of the forms and supporting documentation, he or she might become overwhelmed by trying to determine which important medical records are necessary or which documents should be left out.
Too busy to handle it all
If someone’s life is already full of medical appointments and family responsibilities, it can be almost impossible to find the time to try to apply for benefits. Although applying might sound easy at first, many people find that getting approved will be more time-consuming than they thought. It can take time to obtain copies of birth certificates, military records, and income tax returns.
Procrastinate because they cannot afford a proper medical diagnosis
The applicant must prove that he or she has certain conditions, illnesses, or disabilities to qualify for benefits, which means that many people put off applying because they think that they cannot afford to get a qualifying diagnosis. For low-income people and those who do not drive, it can be challenging visiting doctors and specialists. The cost of co-pays alone can be enough to make some people put off making an appointment.
Do not know if they are qualified or worry they will be denied
A lot of people have heard horror stories from friends and relatives who were denied benefits. Just the thought of having to go through the appeals process can be daunting, even before a person has applied or been denied. Applying for disability might seem like a lot of work to go through for nothing if the outcome is not positive.
Want to hire a lawyer but do not know which one to choose
A lot of people have heard that it is best to hire a disability lawyer to increase one’s chances of getting approved for benefits or to handle appeals. Some people put off applying for social security disability because they think they cannot afford legal representation or are unsure of where to find an attorney in their area. Without a personal referral, it can be difficult to know which attorney is the most qualified and willing to fight for your rights. However, there are many Utah disability Lawyers that can help. Many people put off applying for disability until they are able to properly research their representation possibilities and consult with a lawyer about their options.
Applying for benefits can be challenging, and a lot of people delay applying. Unfortunately, procrastinating does not usually solve anything in these matters. People who are confused about the process or do not have the time or energy to apply on their own should consider consulting with a lawyer to get their application started without further delay.
This article is courtesy of Anita Ginsburg, a freelance writer from Denver who often writes about home, family, law and business. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family when she isn’t writing.
