SSD Claims Process Attorneys in Bridgewater, NJ
SSDI functions to support an individual when he or she becomes disabled for more than 1 year. It is also in place to support families after a person passes away who was receiving benefits through SSDI. Workers across the country pay into the system to receive support when the time comes, either when retired or disabled. If you are injured to the point of disability, you may be wondering how to get the benefits you deserve when you need them most. The process of applying for Social Security Disability Benefits through SSDI is complicated and document-heavy. Knowing what lies ahead is always in your best interest. When applying for benefits through SSDI, it is best to have an attorney’s assistance to ensure all requirements are satisfied, avoiding any delays or denials of the benefits you need. Siragusa Law Firm proudly acts as a legal resource to clients across New Jersey regarding SSDI. If you are applying for benefits, contact our firm to help you protect your rights and future.
When should I apply for SSD benefits?
It is important to act quickly. You should apply for SSD benefits as soon as you are injured. The application processing time can take up to five months, so acting immediately is in your best interest. When you believe that you have satisfied the threshold of being disabled, you will need to complete the application and collect a lot of information.
What information does SSDI need for my application?
When applying for Social Security disability benefits, it is best to collect the information they need as soon as possible. The more they need to ask for, the longer the process. It would greatly benefit you to collect and provide the following information:
- Your Social Security number
- Your birth certificate or baptismal certificate
- Information about your medical visits, including addresses and phone numbers of doctors, caseworkers, hospitals, and clinics.
- Dates of your medical visits
- Information about the medicine you take, including names and dosage
- Any medical records you have at your disposal
- Any laboratory tests and their results
- A summary of work history
- Latest W-2 or, in the case of self-employment, the latest tax return
Do not delay applying for benefits, but if you can collect this information quickly, it would help the process along.
Can I apply for Social Security benefits?
When wondering how the Social Security Administration assesses your disability benefits application, they decide based on answering a few basic questions, including:
- Have you worked enough years to qualify?
- What are your current work activities?
Am I disabled?
At this point, if you satisfy the requirements, they will process your application and pass it along to the New Jersey Disability Determination Services office. This is when medical professionals and experts of the agency ask your doctors for information, including:
- Your medical state
- When the medical issues began
- How your medical state impacts your activities
- Any relevant medical test results
- The treatment you received
- Your ability to do work-related activities
The agency may ask for further information or send you to a special examination if not provided sufficient information by those who have treated you. It is important to note that your doctor does not decide if you are disabled; the agency does. With the information and evidence provided, including medical information from hospitals, clinics, and other institutions, the state will decide on your case by answering 5 questions:
- Are you working?
- Is your condition “severe”?
- Does your impairment meet the threshold of being “disabled”?
- Can you do your previous work?
- Can you do any other type of work?
What happens if my SSDI application is approved?
Once approved, you should receive a letter. Your pay will be based on your lifetime earnings. The letter will detail your monthly benefit and the effective date of payments. Your benefits will be paid for the 6th full month after the date your disability began.
What happens if my SSDI application is denied?
If your application is denied and you cannot work to support yourself, you could be in a very serious situation and our firm is here to help. This is a critical part of the process. If they were to deny your benefits, you have the right to appeal their decision. Having strong representation is more important than ever.
Contact a Somerset County SSDI claim attorney
Siragusa Law Firm understands the pressure you feel to support your family. If you were to be denied benefits after becoming disabled, your future could be greatly burdened. Siragusa Law Firm represents clients in need of legal support when dealing with Social Security Disability Insurance. Our firm is ready to fight for your rights. For a consultation with an effective legal team, contact Siragusa Law Firm today.