When Are You Eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance?
02/16/09
Q: When can I file for social security disability benefits?
A: You can apply for social security disability benefits when you can no longer work, due to your condition. You are eligible if your injury will keep you from working for at least 12 months. You should apply for social security disability as soon as possible, since it can take quite some time for the Social Security Administration to review your claim. If you are awarded social security disability insurance, you may be eligible for retroactive payments. Regardless of how quickly your application is processed, you will not be able to receive benefits until 6 months after your date of onset. You will not be awarded retroactive benefits for that period of time.
Q: Where do I submit an application for social security disability benefits?
A: To submit a claim for social security disability, first contact your local Social Security office or apply online via the main Social Security web site. An interview with your claims representative will be scheduled. That interview can be done in person or via telephone. Your claims representative will be your point of contact through the application process and will assure that you fill out the appropriate paperwork. If you are unsure if you qualify for SSDI (social security disability insurance) or SSI (supplemental security income), your claims rep can help you. He or she will also walk you through any application for back payments of social security disability benefits.
Q: Are there steps I can take that might help the chances that I will be awarded social security disability benefits?
A: Many claims for social security disability are denied during the initial review process. You can, however, improve the likelihood that your application is approved. The first task is to simply make sure you applied correctly and completely. By staying in touch with your claims representative, you can easily know if anything required is missing. The next step is to assure that your doctor is on your side and backs your decision to file for social security disability benefits. By providing a comprehensive statement regarding your condition, your doctor will give your claim a solid foundation. In addition to applying correctly and having a thorough statement from your doctor, assure that your medical records have been given to your claims representative. Waiting for requested medical files is the number one reason most claims are delayed. Lastly, be cooperative, meet deadlines and check in on your file. Finally, make sure you do not miss deadlines for paperwork, keep in touch with your claim representative to know where your file is in the process and always be courteous (no matter how frustrated you may get at times.)