How Do I Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits Or SSI Benefits?
Becoming disabled is not something most people think about, especially if they are young. You hear about others who have suffered a sudden illness or accident and who are now disabled; however, you never believe this could happen to you. Unfortunately, anyone can become disabled at any time before reaching full retirement age. Without private disability insurance, you may not be able to pay your bills and living expenses without the assistance of the Social Security disability benefits program.
What is the Social Security Disability Benefits Program?
Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two federal disability benefits programs designed to assist individuals who are unable to work to provide for themselves due to a disability. The disability may be something the person is born with or it may be something the person develops during life due to an illness or an accident.
Disability benefits are paid to individuals who have a medical condition that is expected to last more than 12 months that prevents the individual from working. The person must meet the definition of disability as defined by federal law. SSDI is designed for employees who become disabled for any reason and are no longer able to work. In order to qualify for SSDI, the employee must meet the earnings requirement for disability benefits in addition to meeting the definition of being disabled.
SSI is a disability benefits program that is not based on your work history. It is a supplemental income disability benefits program based on need and disability. You must meet the definition of being disabled but the work requirement does not apply. However, you are not permitted to earn above a certain amount each month to qualify for disability benefits under the SSI program.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits
There are two ways to apply for Social Security disability benefits. You can apply online through the Social Security Administration or you can call or visit your local Social Security Administration office. Applying in person requires you to make an appointment before you visit your local Social Security Administration office.
Am I Entitled to Have Representation When I Apply for Disability Benefits?
You are entitled to have representation during the disability benefits application process. Sometimes it is beneficial to have assistance when completing your application in order to avoid delays in processing or a denial of your disability benefits due to a mistake on you application. Furthermore, if you are denied for disability benefits, you are also entitled to retain someone to represent you in the appeals process.
In many cases, it is beneficial to have an experienced Social Security disability benefits attorney represent you with regard to your application and/or appeal. An attorney who is familiar with the process can avoid the problems and errors that often lead to a denial of benefits.
Contact an Experienced Radcliff and Elizabethtown Social Security Disability Attorney
We’ve Helped Thousands of KY Families, we can help you!
The Social Security lawyers of Musselwhite Meinhart & Staples, PSC have over 50 years of combined legal experience helping clients receive the Social Security benefits they are entitled to receive. We can help you with the application process and represent you in an appeal if you are denied Social Security disability benefits.
Contact us at our Radcliff and Elizabethtown Office in Hardin County at (270) 351-6032 or toll-free at 1-800-754-HELP to schedule a consultation. You may also contact our office through our convenient online contact form.