How to Get Started on my Disability Claim
Are you suffering from an injury or illness that currently prevents you from working or going back to work? Are you looking to apply for monthly payments for disability from Social Security, but you don’t know where to start or how the process works? Don’t worry, you’re in the right place!
Whether you’re applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Casa de la Justicia is here to guide you every step of the way at no cost out of pocket to you. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of the disability claims process with ease and confidence. Let’s dive into how you can get started on your application for monthly disability benefits and how we at Casa de la Justicia can be your trusted partner in achieving a successful outcome.
The SSA Disability benefits and its differences
Before filing your Disability claim, you need to first know there are two Disability benefits the Social Security Administration (SSA) gives, what they offer individually and which one of them best fits your situation.
SSDI
Social Security Disability Insurance
This is a federal program designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a severe disability.
Qualifications
- You’re under 65 years old
- You’ve worked at least five of the last ten years and paid income taxes
- You are a citizen, legal permanent resident, or have an active work permit
- You have a documented medical condition that prevents you from currently working
SSI
Supplemental Security Income
This is a need-based program designed to help those with limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require that you have worked or paid income taxes into the Social Security system.
Qualifications
- You are not currently working or are employed in a low-paid job
- You have limited or no assets or income (your spouse’s assets and income are included when your claim is evaluated by Social Security)
- You are a citizen or a legal permanent resident
- You have a documented medical condition that prevents you from currently working
While both programs aim to support individuals with disabilities, the key difference lies in eligibility requirements and funding sources.
When you call Casa de la Justicia, we will evaluate your situation with a quick questionnaire and determine which of these two benefits best fit you. This evaluation usually takes about 10 minutes, is completely confidential and you can decide if you want to start completing your application right then and there with us on the phone as there is no need for you to come to our office to get the process started.
Start your free evaluation for your monthly Disability payments now!
Preparing to File Your Application for Monthly Disability Payments
Gathering Necessary Documentation
Before you start your application, it is important you gather all the necessary documentation. This includes your personal information, work history, updated medical records, and any other relevant documents that can support your claim. Having this information organized, readily available and up-to-date will make the application process smoother and help avoid delays. Casa de la Justicia will let you know exactly what documents are required and keep them safely for you during the duration of your case.
Completing the Application Forms
The application includes various forms that SSA requires you to fill. Working with you, we will ensure all sections of the forms are complete and provide detailed information about your medical condition, treatment history, and how your disability affects your daily life and ability to work. Missing or incorrect information can result in delays or denial of your claim.
Importance of Medical Evidence
Medical evidence is the cornerstone of a successful disability claim. Your medical records should clearly document your diagnosis, treatment, and how your condition limits your abilities. This can include doctor’s notes, test results, and statements from healthcare providers. Comprehensive and up-to-date medical evidence can significantly strengthen your claim.
What to Expect After Submission
After submitting your application, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will review your claim. This process takes on average 8 months. During this time, SSA may request additional information or clarification. We at Casa de la Justicia will work with you to respond promptly to any requests to avoid further delays.
Timeline of a Disability claim
The SSA reviews your application to determine if you meet the basic eligibility criteria. They will check if you have worked enough years to qualify and if your disability is severe enough to limit your ability to work. It generally takes 8-months to get a decision, and at this stage, only 20% of people win.
If your initial application is denied, you can request a reconsideration. Since you only have 60 days after receiving the letter to file an appeal, we will work with you immediately to review the denial and start the process, which will include securing more up-to-date medical evidence to bolster your claim. The SSA will review your application again, considering the new evidence. This process can take another 8-months.
If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). A date and time of your hearing will be determined by the SSA and you will be notified. During this period, we at Casa de la Justicia can and will help you out in what to say, what evidence to show and represent you before the Administrative Law Judge to solidify your case further.
Please be aware that Disability lawyers cannot speed up the process, which we know can take up to 2-years.
The wait time is completely set by the SSA, but with Casa de la Justicia by your side, the possibilities of winning can be 3 times more than doing it on your own. As experienced attorneys filing claims for monthly payments for disability, we know what steps to take and how to better represent you before Social Security and ensure you get the maximum compensation possible, with no cost out of pocket to you.
Conclusion
Starting your disability claim requires you to be thorough and have a lot of patience. Taking it one step at a time can make the process much more manageable. If you’re feeling unsure or just want some extra guidance, Casa de la Justicia is here to help. Our experienced team knows the ins and outs of filing claims for monthly payments for Disability from Social Security and is ready to stand by your side every step of the way, at any stage of your case, with no cost out of pocket to you. Simply call us at 1 800 840 4040 and we will help you with your first application or if necessary, we will work with you to file an appeal if the Social Security (SSA) has denied you your monthly Disability payments.
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