4 Tips When Filing For Social Security Disability Benefits

Posted on: 10 May 2023

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Social Security Disability provides financial support for people who are unable to work due to a long-term disability. The process, however, can be complicated, and many claims are denied. If you would like to know more, check out these four tips.

1. Proof-Read for Errors

You must include a lot of information while filing a claim, so there are many chances to make mistakes. Some information you must provide includes:

  • Name
  • Contact information
  • SSN/Identifying information
  • Income

Before you submit your claim, re-read all the information for errors. Claims are often denied for simple mistakes, such as misspellings and missing information. Depending on the situation, they may simply return the claim or request the missing/corrected information.

2. Include All Documentation

Naturally, when submitting your claim, you need to submit all medical evidence that proves you have a long-term disability, and it prevents you from working. There are qualifying conditions, but typically, any medical condition that impacts your ability to work may be considered.

Don't forget to include any income information. If you make too much money, your claim will be denied. Similarly, if you work too many hours (regardless of how much you earn), your claim may be denied on the assumption that you can work.

3. Don't Refile a Denied Claim

If your claim is denied, don't refile a new claim. The more denials you have, the more likely your future claims are to get denied. Instead, you should appeal the denial. You may need to provide more information or documentation that you are disabled, depending on the reason for the denial.

4. Get an Attorney

You can avoid most mistakes by hiring an attorney to do all the work for you. They better understand if a claim is going to get denied based on the condition or medical evidence. They'll also ensure all your information is correct. Best of all, they ensure you're not accidentally breaking laws like forgetting to include some forms of income.

When your claim is approved, you get a large lump sum that includes retro payments dating back to the onset of the disability. After that, you receive a smaller check each month. Most attorneys only get paid if your claim is approved, and their payment is a portion of the lump sum.

If you believe you qualify for disability benefits, it may be time to contact an attorney. They can help guide you and ensure you get the benefits you deserve. If you would like to know more, contact a Social Security Disability attorney today.