For those unable to work at their jobs because of a medical condition, the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides a monthly payment that could help make ends meet. Getting approved for benefits is not a given, however. It can take long time to get through the application process and then a long wait for your approval. Unfortunately, many applicants get denied and are left wondering what to do next. You should know that there are some specific things to know about before you apply that might help reduce your chances of being denied.
Income Issues: The SSA reasons that if you make a certain amount of money, then you have no need of benefits. Your income is of prime interest the SSA, not only when you apply but throughout the time that you begin receiving benefits. The actual amount you can earn and still get benefits can change yearly and is based on the cost of living index. At this time, the amount is $1,180 (1,970 for the blind). If you are earning more than that amount, you won't get benefits. This means that you likely will be either unemployed or underemployed when you seek benefits.
Medical Issues: There is probably no single problematic issue that exceeds that of proving your medical condition. The SSA needs to know that you have not been able to work at your job for at least a year (or that you are likely to be unable to work for at least a year in the future). You must be able to prove that your medical condition is the reason that you cannot work at your job. The SSA looks at the tasks of the job you were most recently doing, and evaluates your ability to do those tasks given your medical condition. You must, therefore:
1. Seek medical attention for your condition.
2. Don't miss any medical appointments.
3. Comply with all medical treatment orders.
4. Be ready to show proof with medical records of your disability.
Communication Issues: The SSA will likely be in communication with you throughout the application and waiting period, and you should take care to give these letters your attention. Be sure to provide the SSA with a good, reliable mailing address, since that is the exclusive manner of communication from them to you. You may be asked, for example, to provide them with additional information about your claim. Often these requests have a deadline, and failing to comply could have your claim automatically denied.
You are entitled to an appeal hearing if you are denied your benefits, and you may be able to have a Social Security attorney represent you at that hearing for no upfront fee. Speak to an attorney like those found at Van Gilder & Trzynka PC about your case today.
