The 4 Most Important Tips For Applying For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Posted on: 13 December 2018
Now that the news of your permanent disability has had time to sink in, it is time to think about applying for disability payments. Since the process isn't quick nor is it simple, it is vital you follow each of these four important tips.
Tip #1: Know Whether You Should Apply for SSI or SSDI
There are two different federal government programs for people who become permanently disabled. They are known as SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance). Both disability programs are administered by the SSA (Social Security Administration).
When applying for disability with the SSA, it is your responsibility to know which program is applicable to your unique situation. This is vital, because if you apply for the wrong program, then you will have an approval delay and will not be paid for the time you had to wait for the first denial.
SSI is the correct program if you have not worked for a decade or more and are low income or elderly. SSI is needs-based, and your payment will be adjusted based on your household income.
SSDI is the right program if you have worked for over a decade and your disability is expected to last one year or more. SSDI is not needs-based and other household member's income will not factor into your payments.
Tip #2: Don't Delay in Applying for SSDI
If your doctor suggests you apply for SSDI, then it is recommended you do so immediately. If you try to stay optimistic about your disabling condition and put it off, you could exhaust your resources and find yourself in a crisis situation. If your condition improves, you can always cancel your application, but there isn't any way to speed up the process if you put off doing the application.
Tip #3: Ask Your Doctor to Thoroughly Document Your Physical and Mental Limitations
The information your doctor provides has a lot to do with whether your application for SSDI will be approved or not. Since you know you will be applying, sit down with your doctor and ask them to thoroughly document your mental and physical limitations. Regardless of your specific condition, the more medical documentation you have the absolute better your chances of an approval.
Tip #4: Consult with a Social Security Disability Insurance Attorney Before You Apply
Finally, rather than waiting to consult with a Social Security Disability lawyer if your case is denied, instead, meet with one before you apply. By sitting down and discussing your case, you can avoid many of the common pitfalls that result in denials. Additionally, an SSDI attorney can assist you with a financial dire need letter, a referral to a disability-friendly physician, and other suggestions about paperwork and procedural matters.
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