Life can be a challenge for a person who becomes ill, is injured, or otherwise disabled. When those issues make it impossible for the person to continue working, it can be devastating for them and their families. Fortunately, there are disability benefits available from the federal government for those who qualify.
What is Social Security Disability Benefits?
Social Security Disability is a program offered by the federal government to provide monthly payments to individuals and some family members to help offset the financial hardships due to having a disability. Individuals can head to nicoletlaw.com for more information about the application process.
Social Security disability benefits are provided through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This is a social insurance program that workers earn coverage from working and paying Social Security taxes. When a person is permanently disabled and can no longer work, these benefits can replace some of the lost wages. In Australia, there is a similar government scheme where a range of disabilities are covered by the nationwide NDIS initiative that has over 400,000 participants living with disability in Australia. However, the NDIS initiative can only offer assistance through certified providers like Selectability NDIS Cairns, as the service and care need to meet certain standards. While the NDIS provides daily assistance and help, cash payments come from other government bodies like the disability support pension.
Who can Claim Disability Benefits?
The Social Security Administration has a strict definition of disability for those wishing to receive these benefits. Unlike other agencies or private insurance providers, Social Security does not offer benefits for temporary or partial disabilities.
To qualify for Social Security Disability a person must be defined as permanently disabled. Those who qualify are individuals who have a physical or mental impairment that is expected to last continuously for more than 12 months or will result in death.
This impairment must make it impossible for the individual to engage in any substantial gainful activity. The individual must be considered an insured worker or the dependent of an insured worker to receive SSDI benefits. Those who are not insured and have limited income and resources may qualify for benefits under the Supplemental Security Income program.
How to Apply for Disability Benefits?
It is recommended that individuals apply for these benefits as soon as they become disabled. This is because the benefits do not kick in until after the five-month waiting period. Individuals can apply by completing the application on the Social Security Administration’s website or by calling their offices.
Once the application is completed, individuals will need to provide their medical information to the SSA. The SSA may also require an evaluation by one of its medical professionals. Once all the information is collected, individuals can usually receive a decision within three to five months.
Unfortunately, many initial applications are denied for individuals who should qualify for benefits. In these cases, there are options for appealing the decision. However, these appeals can be complicated and quite lengthy.
Is There Help for Applying Available?
The application process for Social Security Disability benefits can be complicated and confusing for many people. Most denials are due to missing or incorrect information in the application. Fortunately, there is help available for the application process.
Speaking with an attorney may be the best option for those trying to receive these benefits. An attorney can assist with the entire process and help ensure all information is correct and complete. Even if the application is denied, an attorney can assist with the appeals process and even represent the applicant in court if necessary.
In many cases, a disability benefits attorney will provide an evaluation of the case at no cost. Some may even provide their services at no fee until benefits are received. This can make it a little easier for those facing financial hardships to get the help they need.
