If you are currently disabled, you may qualify for social security benefits. However, there is a process you must go through before getting your benefits. Here is what you must do:
Determine Eligibility
To apply for disability benefits you must meet the following qualifications:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Not currently receiving Social security benefits
- Not able to work due to a medical condition that is estimated to last longer than 12 months or end in death
- Have not had a disability benefits application denied within the last 60 days
Application Method
If you believe you are eligible, you can apply in three ways:
- Online
- By Phone (call 1-800-772-1213)
- In person (schedule an appointment with your local Social Security branch office)
Information
You will need to provide certain information about yourself for the application process (full checklist here), including:
- Social Security number and birth date
- Social Security number, birth date, and name of your spouse
- Names and birth dates of your children
- The Routing Number of your financial institution (to have benefits transferred electronically)
- Your medical condition, including any documented illnesses or injuries
- Your work history, including the income you earned last year, the name of your employers, any military service you performed, and a list of all jobs that you held within 15 years of becoming disabled.
Further Verification
The Social Security office might also request more information to prove that your eligible. For example, these might be requested:
- Birth certificate
- Proof that you are a United States citizen or have lawful status (if not born in the U.S.)
- Discharge documents from the U.S. military (if you served before 1968)
- Any W-2 forms or tax returns from the previous year
- Any medical documents (records, surgeon reports, etc.) that verify your condition
- Settlements, pay stubs, or any other proof that you received compensation for your condition.
Disability can reduce your ability to make an income, leaving you with no way to support yourself or your family. If you are disabled, you may qualify to receive compensation for Social Security payments that you have made. Depending on your circumstance, you might receive medical help or cash compensation. Regardless, you should consult a professional attorney to help you navigate the confusion of the Social Security disability benefits process. If you fail to send the right documents, meet the deadline, or otherwise comply fully with the Social Security procedures, you could miss out on the help you deserve.
To learn more about social security, contact a law firm like Espy Metcalf & Espy PC At Law.
