Frequently Asked Questions About Social Security Disability
Q: What are Social Security Disability benefits?
A: Social Security Disability is a benefit received from the Social Security Administration by disabled workers and, in some cases, their dependents, similar to those received by retired workers.
Q: Who qualifies for Social Security Benefits?
A: To receive benefits under the Social Security Disability program, you must have a physical or mental health problem (or a combination of problems) severe enough to keep you from working in any regular paying job for at least one year. By using an extensive set of regulations, the Social Security Administration takes into account your medical condition, age, abilities, training and work experience when deciding your case.
Q: What happens if I qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?
A: If you are found eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits, you will get paid benefits beginning 5 full months after you become disabled, but only for a maximum of 12 months before you applied for benefits.
Q: How much money will I receive if I qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?
A: A disabled claimant will receive the same monthly benefit that he would receive had he retired at 65. The sum of money received will depend on one's previous work record.
Q: When and where should I apply for Social Security Disability benefits?
A: Turn in your application as soon as possible after the disability occurs. You do not need to wait 12 months to apply. An application for Social Security Disability may also be filed after the death of a disabled worker. You must apply within three months of the worker's death. Call your Social Security office or use this toll free phone number to schedule an appointment: 1-800-772-1213.
Q: What happens if Social Security denies my disability claim?
A: If you are denied at the initial stage and you do not return to work in the near future, you should appeal by filing a "Request for Reconsideration." To get the Social Security Administration to reconsider your claim, you must write the local office within 60 of the denial. Your case will be reviewed again and you will be notified by mail of the decision. The majority of claims are denied on their second request. At this point, you can fill out a Request for Hearing form at your Social Security office.
Q: Why should I hire an attorney?
A: The Government's own figures show that benefits are awarded far more frequently to claimants wit attorneys than those who choose to handle the claims themselves. Ideally, you should contact an attorney as soon as your initial application is denied. He or she will conduct pre-hearing preparation, analysis and evidence gathering to provide you with superior representation. The earlier a social security disability lawyer is able to start working on your case, the better.
For more detailed information about Social Security Disability, please visit our site solely devoted to Social Security Disability at www.socialsecuritync.com.
If you are disabled and believe that you are entitled to Social Security Disability Benefits, e-mail or call the social security disability lawyers at Whitley, Rodgman & Whitley at 1-800-785-5000. We'll review your case for free.
