Five Steps To Prepare For A Social Security Disability Claim
When dealing with a chronic illness or an accidental injury, you may get so busy juggling doctor appointments, physical pain, and the impacts of limited mobility that you lose sight of the future. Unfortunately, your condition could result in long-term disabilities that eventually prevent you from working.
Social Security disability benefits can provide a lifeline, enabling you to continue providing for yourself and your family. However, filing a claim and getting it approved takes time. Our Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer explains steps you can take to prepare and increase the chances of getting your claim approved.
Preparing for When You Are Unable To Work
If you are unable to work for a year or longer, you may be entitled to Social Security disability. This can help offset lost wages, but obtaining benefits is not an easy process.
According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), close to two million people file an application each year, but only a quarter of these are approved. You will likely be denied and need to file an appeal before you finally begin receiving these benefits. If you anticipate being unable to work in the future, take these steps now to prepare:
- Get a firm diagnosis from your doctor.
Getting a firm disability diagnosis is not always as easy as it may seem. You may need to go to several doctors, undergo rigorous testing, and consult with specialists before one will list you as disabled on your medical charts.
- Keep copies of all medical records.
Keep thorough records regarding all the medical providers you have seen, medical testing and the results, treatments you have undergone, and any physical therapy or medications you are taking. You will need these records to support your claim.
- Review your eligibility for Social Security disability benefits.
Review your personal information with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and confirm you have the required work credits to be eligible for disability benefits. Review the SSA’s Listing of Impairments to ensure you have a qualifying condition as well.
- Familiarize yourself with the claims process.
Review all the steps needed in filing a disability claim. This includes the application process, submitting to interviews, and attending a physical with an SSA doctor. Be aware of your rights in filing an appeal in the event of a denied claim, which is common.
- Consider ways to provide for yourself while you wait.
It can take long months or even years to finally get approved for Social Security disability benefits. Consider how you will provide for yourself while you wait. This may involve cashing in other insurance policies, dipping into retirement benefits, or seeking help from loved ones.
Contact Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer
Do not get discouraged when filing for disability benefits. Farrell Disability Law is here to help. We fight to get the total amount you are entitled to in the least amount of time possible. Contact our Florida Social Security disability lawyer and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.
Sources:
ssa.gov/benefits/disability/
ssa.gov/oact/STATS/dibStat.html
ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings.htm
