Understanding Social Security Disability

Understanding Social Security

Social Security is a program that provides the disabled with a financial safety net. The Social Security Administration administers the program. The goal of the program is to give benefits to those who are in need, but do not have enough income or an adequate source of income to provide for their needs. Social Security disability claims are reviewed by a special team called the Disability Determination Services (DDS) that determines the need for social security disability benefits and then looks for a solution to make sure the needs are met.

Social Security defines disability as a person’s inability to perform the physical activities of life. The list of disabling conditions is very long but includes: cancer, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, kidney disease, asthma, blindness, partial paralysis, hearing loss, blindness, deafness, and obesity. Some disabilities are progressive, meaning that they get worse over time. Others only have one disabling condition.

To apply for benefits, you must first be determined to be eligible through a medical evaluation. You must also complete and submit an application. Once your application is submitted and approved, you will receive a notice of determination. A letter of notification will also be sent to each supporting agency, letting them know your status. The disabled may then begin receiving benefits.

The way the application process works is pretty simple. You first fill out and submit the application. The SSA then sends you a letter that tells you if you qualify for benefits or not. If you do qualify, the letter will tell you how much to apply for, how often to apply, and when you should expect to hear from the SSA. You can then work on your claim either by yourself or with the help of an attorney.

If you are denied benefits, an appeal can be made to the same administrative office that initially denied you. An attorney will be necessary because an appeal involves a complex set of rules and regulations. Many people decide to represent themselves when filing an appeal because they do not have the proper experience in this area. The attorney will do all the research needed to properly represent your interests so that you have the best chance at having your claim approved.

It is important to make sure that you hire a qualified attorney to represent your claim. Qualified attorneys will not have any emotional ties to the case, meaning that they will do all they can to help you get your claim approved. Hiring an attorney will also ensure that you have proper representation in the event that an appeal turns out to be denied.

If you need more information about Social Security Disability, the Social Security Law Center is a great resource