How To Apply For Disability Benefits
If you suffer a disabling injury that doesn't allow you to keep working full-time or until retirement age, which for most Alabamians averages 62, you need not struggle to meet your daily expenses and live with dignity when you may qualify for disability benefits.
Your best bet is to turn to the Social Security Administration (SSA) for these crucial benefits offered through its two disability programs: the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is an income benefits program, and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is a needs-based program.
Most importantly, you need to know the right program to apply for and the proper application process. This way, you'll be better prepared and avoid making mistakes, often unintentionally, that could lead to your application being denied. Our firm has experienced disability attorneys who can help you put together your application and navigate the process.
Here, we cover what you need to know when applying for disability benefits in Alabama, focusing on Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. Remember this is a general outline; once you start your application, it should be tailored to suit your specific circumstances.
Social Security Disability Insurance Basics
The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal-driven income benefits program targeting workers with disabling conditions who can no longer meet the demands of their work.
As a result, it receives hundreds of thousands of applications each year. Insured individuals, who have paid social security taxes out of their paychecks, can qualify if they suffer from a condition or disability that makes them unable to work for at least one year or will result in death.
Out of these applications, statistics show that more than half of first-time applications are rejected due to errors that could have been avoided with better due diligence or failure to qualify for these benefits. It’s critical to have a well put together application when you initially present your case to the SSA.
The first step before you begin the application process is to check whether you meet the qualifications stipulated by the Social Security Administration. Once you are certain you meet these requirements, you can proceed to make your application following all the right steps.
How to Apply for Social Security Disability
Choose an application method that best suits you
If you are in Alabama and eligible for disability benefits, there are three ways you can apply for Social Security disability benefits, namely:
1. You can apply online
2. You can make an application by calling the Social Security Administration offices at 1-800-772-1213. If you have trouble hearing or are deaf, call them at 1-800-325-0778. Remember, these call lines are only open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
3. You can visit your local Social Security Administration offices for an in-person interview.
4. You can work with an attorney who has a deep understanding of disability law to hold your hand through the information gathering and application process.
It is highly recommended that you consult with a disability lawyer before submitting your application. Hiring a Social Security Disability Lawyer can increase the chances of having your application approved, decrease your stress in dealing with the application process, and help you get approved for benefits more quickly. The Friedman Firm charges no fees unless your application is approved.
Have all relevant documents and information at hand
Regardless of the application method you choose to use, what's important when applying for SSDI benefits is that you have all the relevant documents and information that will be required. So, before you start that application process, ensure you have the following:
Your social security number and documentation proving place and date of birth. Similar information will be required on your current or former spouse, plus evidence of marriage, divorce, or death, especially when they are also applying for benefits.
The names, addresses, and phone numbers of two other individuals who know about your medical condition and can assist with your claim. These are your alternate contacts and shouldn't be your healthcare provider.
If any family members qualify to receive benefits, such as children under age 18, you'll need to provide their social security numbers and proof of age.
Your latest W-2 form or federal tax returns.
Information on your education and if you have received any special education or training
A record of your work history as you are only eligible for benefits if you have worked long enough and actively paid social security taxes.
Workers' compensation details, which offer proof of on-job injuries. Details here should include the date of injury and the settlement agreement, including the payments made.
Your medical records. This should cover all information on your medical condition, including healthcare providers who have examined or treated you, all medical tests you have undergone, and the medicine you take and the reason you take them.
Your income statements will also be required as proof that you are not making substantial gains, as there are income limits that amount to automatic disqualification.
Your checking or savings account number and the bank's routing number for electronic funds transfer after your application is approved.
A disability attorney can help advise you on what records and information you need to request and from where. They can also vet the information for your application ensuring you have all the information you need, and none that you do not.
Submit your completed application
Once you have all the documents and information needed, you can now complete and submit your disability application. Once you have submitted the application you will wait on a response from the SSA. It can take several weeks before receiving approvals or denials, the timeline is 30 to 90 days from submission.
Common questions
What happens if your application is rejected?
Initial applications are often rejected. Once an application is rejected, there is a 60-day period to file for reconsideration. When filing for reconsideration, it is important to consider the reasons given for the application's denial. Consider seeking the professional assistance of a disability attorney, or reaching out to your local Social Security Administration office. A disability
How do I avoid denial of my Social Security Disability application?
The Social Security Administration always clarifies that it only pays benefits to applications that meet their eligibility requirements. In order to be eligible for benefits, you'll need to take the qualifications requirements seriously, ensure your application contains accurate information, and address why you are unable to work.
The Friedman Firm can help you prepare your disability application. Having a law firm on your side, who is highly experienced with the Social Security system, will increase your chances of being granted disability and decrease the likelihood of an initial application rejection. Getting a quality initial application put together can also expedite the timeline to receiving benefits. If you need to appeal an initial disability application rejection, we will continue to skilfully represent your case throughout the process. We don’t charge a fee unless your application is successful.