Most Americans are expected to earn a living by working a job or running a business. However, sometimes that’s not possible. For individuals with disabilities, working a job is often a task that can’t be met. Thankfully, there are resources in place—like disability benefits—to help those who can’t work.
Are you trying to get disability to replace your job? If so, take a look at the requirements below to see if you qualify for social security disability benefits.
Unable to Work
If you have a medical condition that’s predicted to last over one year or potentially result in death, you’re eligible for disability benefits. Once your doctor gives you a diagnosis, then you’ll have the documentation needed to verify your claims.
Some medical conditions aren’t necessarily physical, but the illness restricts the individual from being able to perform daily tasks per usual. As a result of this, disability benefits are an option.
Meet the Social Security Administration Definition of Disability
You aren’t eligible for disability benefits just because you have a medical condition. The social security administration has guidelines for their definition of disabled. The law itself defines disability as not having the ability to carry out any substantial activity due to medical, physical, or mental impairment.
In order to meet this standard, you must have a severe impairment that makes you incapable of relevant work. Also, as stated above, your ailment has to be expected to last for a continual period of time—no less than 12 months.
Partial or Short-Term Disability
There are exceptions to the rules sometimes. If you are physically impaired and can’t work, you can request disability benefits. Some people even work part-time and receive partial disability benefits.
Younger Than the Retirement Age
You must be younger than the full retirement age in order to qualify for disability. The reason being is because individuals who are at the age of retirement receive regular social security benefits. You can’t collect both of them.
Disability benefits were designed for individuals who are working-age that cannot perform regular job tasks.
Hire an Attorney
If you have issues getting your disability benefits, it’s best to get legal representation. Applicants that hire disability lawyers have a better chance of getting approved. The reason being is because disability attorneys know exactly what to put on the application, and they understand how the process works.
It might be a good idea to get an attorney even before you start the application process.
Understanding the Process of Getting Disability Benefits
If you believe that you cannot work a regular job, and you need disability benefits, make sure you have all of your documentation. The process isn’t always easy, and sometimes it takes a while to get approval. If you’re having setbacks, your best bet is to hire an attorney to move the process along.
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