How to File a Social Security Disability Claim

Every year, thousands of individuals delay filing for Social Security Disability (SSD) claim because they are uncertain if they qualify for the benefit. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal government program intended to protect workers against the loss of ability to work due to complete disability. In order to file for a claim, you need to prove physical or mental limitations preventing you from returning to your past job or performing any other type of work to earn money. Here is a brief guide for you to move your claim properly:

Gathering Important Documents for Filing an SSD Claim

Before disability application interview, you need to provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) with the following documents. Keeping these documents handy can make the process go smoothly:

·         Birth certificate

·         Income verification, including wages, any other source of income, and short and long term disability benefits other than SSDI

·         Asset information, including real estate, investment accounts, bank accounts, life insurance policies, etc.

·         Proof of marriage or divorce

In addition to this, you also need to have necessary documents regarding your medical treatment and work history. Your medical records should include names, addresses, and contact information of all physicians and hospitals you have visited. Since application assessment solely relies on the documents and information provided by you, supplying incomplete or insufficient documents may weaken your case.

When it comes to work history, you need to provide information about each job you have performed in the past 15 years. Provide full description of what you did on each job. Supplying insufficient information may result in a denial of application on the basis of being able to return to past work. However, medical and work information are vital to winning a disability claim.

Processing your Disability Claim

Once your claim is submitted, it is transferred to a state agency where a disability examiner reviews the documents. It may take 90-120 days for a decision to come. However, if it is taking longer, you may call Disability Determination Service (DDS) office to speak to the disability examiner.

Approval or Denial of Application

If your application is approved, you will be informed through a written notification. The notice will explain the schedule of future payments. If the application is denied, the office will provide you with a notice of disapproval mentioning your appeal rights. It is better to consult a social security attorney to file disability appeal and move the process along smoothly.

Hiring an expert lawyer may not just ease your application process, but also increase your chances of having a disability claim approved. If you are looking for an expert social security disability attorney, contact Stocker Pitts to get complete guidance for your lawsuit. With some of the best lawyers in Ohio, the firm offers expert legal services for workers’ compensation and veteran’s benefits litigations. Book a free consultation online or call the firm at (330) 762-0280.