When you become disabled for at least a year and can no longer work, you may want to consider filing for Social Security Disability benefits. You will have to apply for these benefits, which isn’t always easy. You will have to prove that you are disabled under the guidelines issued by the Social Security Administration. Some disabilities are much harder to prove than others but if you want to apply, you will have to prove yours regardless.
You can begin the process by filing your application either in person, online, by mail, or over the phone. You will have to detail your disability and the treatment you have gone through when you submit this application. There are two groups of people that handle your case to determine whether you are eligible.
First, the SSA field office will assess all elements of the application that aren’t related to your condition to determine your eligibility. They will verify your age, status of employment, marital status, and information on Social Security coverage. If all of this information passes eligibility standards, the field office will pass your case on to Disability Determination Services.
Once Disability Determination Services has your case, they will conduct an investigation into whether your disability is eligible for benefits. DDS will first review the information that you have provided for your own medical sources on your application. If the DDS doesn’t believe that this information is enough to come to a decision on your application, they may have you attend a consultative examination with either your own medical doctor or one that DDS chooses for you. After all necessary information has been gathered, they will determine whether the disability is eligible for benefits. If your disability application is denied, you can appeal the denial and have your application heard before an administrative law judge.
If you have questions about applying for Social Security Disability or proving your disability, it is important that you consult with an experienced SSD attorney who can provide you with assistance.
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If you require experienced legal representation for a matter of Family Law, Supplemental Security Income, Medical Malpractice, Social Security Disability, or Legal Malpractice, Siragusa Law Firm is here to help. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your case.
