Living with a serious physical or mental condition that leaves a person disabled and unable to hold full-time employment can be incredibly difficult. Disability benefits from the Social Security Administration are designed to provide a financial safety net for those who are disabled. Unfortunately, the process of applying for disability benefits can be long and difficult. If you're planning on applying for disability soon, avoid these mistakes:
Continuing to Work
If you're going to apply for disability, you can't hold a full-time job. The Social Security Administration has strict rules about how much a person is allowed to make each month while receiving disability. You can't maintain your full-time job while you are going through the disability application process. Make sure that you quit your current job before starting the application process.
Trying to Do Everything on Your Own
For best results when applying for disability benefits, you should hire an attorney who specializes in disability cases. The entire process to get approved for disability can be very complicated and complex, and having an experienced attorney will make a huge difference. Don't worry about the costs; you don't have to pay out of pocket for a disability attorney. Their fees are paid by a capped percentage of back pay that you are awarded when you are approved for disability benefits.
Failing to Provide Enough Medical Evidence of Your Disability
Applying for disability benefits involves a lot more than just checking a box saying that you are disabled. The Social Security Administration requires a lot of documentation to prove that your condition truly is disabling and preventing you from being able to work. When preparing to apply for disability, it is important to have as much evidence as possible. You will need medical records from your primary care physician, any specialists you may see, and records from hospital stays or surgeries. The more evidence you have, the better.
Becoming Discouraged
It is important to note that the majority of initial applications for disability are denied. If you receive a denial after submitting your application, don't become discouraged or give up. A denial can be appealed. You just have to make sure that you submit all required documentation for an appeal prior to the deadline. Having a lawyer and being persistent are important factors in eventually having your application for disability benefits approved. An experienced attorney will be able to expertly guide you through the entire process.
For more information, talk to companies like Glen Cook Social Security Attorney.
