Q: When can I file for social security disability benefits?
A: As soon as your injury prevents you from working, you can file for social security disability insurance. You are eligible if your injury will keep you from working for at least 12 months. You should apply for social security disability as soon as possible, since it can take quite some time for the Social Security Administration to review your claim. If you are awarded social security disability insurance, you may be eligible for retroactive payments. You are not eligible for your first benefits payment until the sixth month after the onset of your condition. You will not be awarded retroactive benefits for that period of time.
Q: Where do I submit an application for social security disability benefits?
A: To submit a claim for social security disability, first contact your local Social Security office or apply online via the main Social Security web site. You will then be scheduled for an appointment with a representative assigned to your case. That initial appointment can usually be conducted by phone or in person, dependent upon what is easiest for you. That representative will walk you through the required forms and make sure you have submitted everything for your claim. Your representative will also help you determine whether you are eligible for social security disability insurance or supplemental security income. That representative can assist you with any submission for retroactive payments of social security disability, if applicable.
Q: Are there steps I can take that might help the chances that I will be awarded social security disability benefits?
A: Many claims for social security disability are denied during the initial review process. You can, however, improve the likelihood that your application is approved. The most important thing to do is assure that you have submitted your paperwork correctly. By staying in touch with your claims representative, you can easily know if anything required is missing. Having a supportive doctor who is willing to be your advocate can also help bolster your social security disability case. A detailed letter about your condition written by your treating physician is an asset to your file. The third thing you can do is to make sure your most recent medical records have been submitted for your claim. Waiting for requested medical files is the number one reason most claims are delayed. Lastly, be cooperative, meet deadlines and check in on your file. Finally, make sure you do not miss deadlines for paperwork, keep in touch with your claim representative to know where your file is in the process and always be courteous (no matter how frustrated you may get at times.) Related Articles Orlando social security attorney --