People who have a disability injury or occupational disease may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if their injury prevents them from earning an income or engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). However, the SSDI application process is time-consuming and grueling, which can end in frustrations for most applications. Most initial claims are denied. However, there are ways to improve one’s chances of getting the benefits they deserve. You should click here to get the legal assistance and guidance you need to successfully navigate the application process. Read on to learn about the SSDI application process and how a lawyer can help you navigate it.
Meeting Eligibility Requirements
Just because your treating doctor confirms you have a disability does not mean you will be automatically approved for benefits. The disability examiner who assesses your eligibility for benefits still has a say on this. You can qualify for disability benefits if you have worked in Social Security-covered jobs and have amassed adequate work credits. Also, you need to have a physical or mental disability that prevents you from working and this disability will last for at least twelve months or lead to death. Your attorney helps you determine your eligibility for disability benefits.
Completing the Application
Applying for SSDI benefits involves many complexities. You could gloss over some questions or skip hard ones, thinking you can get back to them later. However, you may end up submitting an incomplete application. Mistakes or omissions in your application can result in a denial and appeal, delaying your benefits. That is why you should review your application carefully or get somebody to help you review the paperwork before you submit it. Having a lawyer help you with the application process increases your chances of approval.
Collecting Supporting Evidence
When the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates your claim, they will look at medical evidence such as test results, doctor’s notes, and imaging scans to verify your disability. As the assigned disability examiner goes through this evidence, they want to determine if you attended follow-up doctor’s visits and are completing your prescribed treatment plan. In addition, the evidence you submit to the SSA should be obtained from acceptable medical sources like licensed medical specialists. These specialists include licensed medical doctors, licensed psychologists, podiatrists, optometrists, and others.
An experienced disability attorney is aware of the complexities of the disability claim process inside and out. They will ensure you submit a complete application that includes adequate medical evidence while you concentrate on your health.
