Most people take pride in being able to take care of themselves. That can mean maintaining their physical health, but it can also mean providing for themselves by holding down a job, career, or other means of generating income. Unfortunately, the day might come when something happens where they can’t work, due to health reasons, for a long time. This is when knowing how to get started with a Social Security Disability can be of paramount importance.
It Starts With Eligibility
The first thing you have to do is be reasonably sure that you are actually eligible for receiving Social Security Disability. In order for this to happen, you need to meet disability definitions as laid out by the Social Security Act. This legislation says that a person is considered disabled if they are unable to work because of a serious medical condition. That inability to work must have lasted a year, be expected to last a full year, or the medical condition must be expected to eventually result in death.
Get an Attorney
A Social Security Disability lawyer can be a very powerful resource to have throughout this process. They can help you make a strong case for yourself on your initial application. That will boost the chances of your approval on the first go, but they can also be of tremendous value if you need to appeal a decision that is not favorable to you.
File Your Application
You can do the application in three different ways. The first is over the phone using the toll-free line available. The second is online through the Social Security Administration website. The third is in person at a Social Security office.
Await the Decision
The Social Security Administration will look over all of the information you supply with your application. At some point, they will make a decision. If they approve the application, you will start receiving benefits. Should they decline your application, you will likely have the right to file an appeal, and your disability attorney can help you with this.
Hopefully, you’ll get through your entire life without something happening that would qualify you for Social Security Disability. However, if it does, remember that it’s there, and do what you need to take advantage of it. This safety net exists to help people pay their bills and maintain a decent quality of life even after they might not be able to provide for themselves like they used to.
Author information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter: @RachelleWilber
