What Should I Expect from the SSD Claims Process?

Were you recently diagnosed with a serious injury or disabling medical condition? If so, you may already be thinking about applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, also known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. As you begin to think about the application process and to find a lawyer to assist you, you are likely wondering what you should be expecting of the claims process. What information will you need to provide in order to obtain benefits? How long will the process take? Our national SSD claims process lawyer can tell you more about what you can expect, and we can begin working with you today on your disability application.

SSDI Eligibility Requirements

First, you will need to gather all relevant evidence to show that you meet the two separate requirements for SSDI eligibility. Your disability benefits lawyer can help you to obtain all of the information you need. Ultimately, you will need to show:

• 1a) You have a medical condition that is expected to last for at least a year or to result in your death;
• 1b) Your medical condition is serious enough that it prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA); and
• 2a) You have worked long enough; and
• 2b) You have worked recently enough to have sufficient “credits” to qualify for SSDI based on your work record.

The first two requirements — both part of the medical requirement — will be based on medical evidence from your health care provider(s). The next two requirements– both part of the non-medical requirement — will be based on documentation of your work record.

You will complete your application for SSDI benefits and submit it to the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Processing Your SSDI Application

As the SSA explains, most SSDI claims will be processed initially through an SSA field office local to you. The Social Security representatives who receive your application will verify your non-medical eligibility — your work record and eligibility based on your employment history.

Then, the field office will send your application to Disability Determination Services (DDS), where your medical eligibility will be evaluated and a determination will be made. The DDS will first rely on the medical evidence you have submitted. If additional medical evidence is necessary, the DDS can arrange for something called a consultative examination (CE). The DDS will then return your application and its medical determination to the SSA field office to finalize your application.

Denial or Approval of Benefits

Your application can then be denied or approved by the SSA. If it is approved, the SSA will compute your benefit amount, and you will begin receiving benefits after 5 months from the date of your disability. If your application is denied, you can appeal.

Contact Our National SSD Claims Process Attorneys for Assistance Today 

Do you need assistance with your initial SSDI claim, or do you need help with an appeal? Whether you are just getting started on applying for SSD benefits or you have received a denial and need assistance appealing the SSA’s determination, our firm can help. One of the experienced national SSD claims process lawyers at the Law Offices of Stephen Barszcz can speak with you today to learn more about your case and to begin working with you on your initial application or your appeal. Contact us today for additional information.

Sources:

ssa.gov/disability/determination.htm

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/approval.html