In an earlier entry regarding the Five Steps to Sequential Evaluation for disability claims, we discussed how working at the level of substantial gainful activity (SGA) means that an individual will not be found eligible for Social Security disability benefits. …
Proving an individual’s disability claim requires a five step evaluation, known as the Sequential Evaluation Process. The claimant (the individual filing for disability benefits) must answer the following five questions: Are you currently working? Do you have a severe medical…
The Initial Application There are many stages that a claim for SSD/SSI benefits may go through and they often require multiple appeals. To start a claim, a person can apply for SSD/SSI benefits online, in person at a local Social…
When you become unable to work due to a physical or psychological medical problem, you need to speak with a lawyer about filing for Social Security Disability. When you meet with the lawyer, you should make sure that she or…
Regular Treatment is Necessary Regular medical treatment is extremely important for Social Security Disability claims. Social Security will look at your treatment records to see how bad your limitations and symptoms are. Social Security wants to see regular and consistent…
Millions of people receiving Social Security benefits will be getting a very small increase - 0.3% - in their monthly benefits in 2017. This marks the fifth year in a row that older and disabled Americans will have to settle…
Now you understand how you have to prove disability, but what is the process?
The first thing you have to do is file an application. Social Security has joined the digital age, and applications are usually filed over the internet. The date of your application is important as DIB benefits can only be paid for 12 months prior to the date of your application. Even if you became disabled several years ago, you can only receive monies for the past year. This is also important as you are not eligible for Medicare until you have been able to receive DIB benefits for 24 months. You also need to know that there is a 5 full month waiting period for DIB. For example, if you applied in January 2015 and are found disabled as of January 1, 2014, your benefits will begin June 2014, and you will be eligible for Medicare June 2016. If you are found disabled January 2, 2014, your benefits will begin July 2014, and you will be eligible for Medicare July 2016. If you are found disabled January 2008 and you apply in January 2015, your benefits will not begin until January 2014, and you will be eligible for Medicare in January 2016.
Evidence is the key to any claim for disability. After all, if you claim to be disabled, you are stating that you have a medical condition which prevents you from working. Unless you have medical evidence of your disabling conditions, you will probably not be found disabled.
SSA will look at the following types of medical evidence to decide if you are disabled.
Filing for Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security can be a daunting task. We’re here to help you navigate the confusing sea of paperwork and fine print. In our four-part series, we’ll give you the facts to give you peace of mind and the answers you are looking for.
There are 3 major programs within the Social Security Administration.