For some with disabilities, maintaining work and being self-sufficient can be a struggle. Understanding this, the government has set up a benefits system to help those with disabilities. If you are unable to work, this can help provide the necessities of life. Here is all of the information that you need to know about Social Security disability benefits.
Applying for Disability Online
If you are in need of Social Security disability benefits, you can easily apply for them online, so long as you meet a set of requirements. These include being 18 years or older, not currently receiving benefits, an inability to work due to a medical condition expected to last at least a year, and having not been denied disability benefits in the last 60 days. Additionally, you can file for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) online should you meet a separate set of requirements. These include being between the ages of 18 and 65, never having been married, if you are blind, United States citizenship and residency, haven’t previously applied for SSI benefits, and you aren’t applying for Social Security disability at the same time.
Personal Information
When you apply for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration will need to know certain things about you, your condition, and information about your previous employment. They will use this information to determine your eligibility for Social Security disability benefits and to determine how much you will receive. While the personal and medical information is simple and you will have likely shared this information with your doctor, the work information possibly required will tell them about your history of workers’ compensation or any other support that you’ve previously received for your medical condition.
Documentation
While you may have provided your personal information to the Social Security Administration, they may want additional documentation to prove that you are who you say. Depending on your situation, producing these items may determine if you are eligible for benefits. Some of these items may include proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and medical records. You can either mail the items with your Social Security number included or personally deliver them to a Social Security office. Regardless of whether or not they ask for documentation, you should immediately apply for benefits to avoid any delay. If the administration requires any additional information or documentation, they will contact you and help you through the process.
After You Apply
Once you’ve applied and they have sent you a confirmation of the receipt of your application, a series of steps may be taken in the processing of your application. If any additional information or documentation is required, you may be contacted by telephone or mail. It may be that some of your family members may be eligible to receive benefits on your record or you may be eligible to receive benefits on a family member’s record. Once the Social Security Administration has received all of the necessary information and documentation, they will be able to process your application and make a decision. You will receive their decision about your eligibility for benefits by mail.
If a disability is keeping you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. If you are eligible, follow this guide to benefit from the Social Security Ticket to Work program. Contact DisABLEd Workers for more information.