Getting SSD Benefits: A Step-by-Step Guide

The impact of a disabling condition can go far beyond the physical effects that come with your injury or illness. Not only could you be struggling to cope emotionally, but you could find yourself unable to continue working. Thankfully, those who cannot work due to a disability, who also meet other specific criteria, may be entitled to social security disability benefits (SSD) through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Read on to learn more about how to apply and qualify for SSD benefits and what to do if you receive a denial letter.

Applying and Qualifying for Benefits

Once you have been diagnosed with a disability, you’ll need to apply for benefits. This can be done by mailing your application in to the Social Security office in your area, online, or over the phone. Although it may be tempting to file your claim online, the fastest way to get a decision regarding your claim is to apply by phone. For your claim to be approved, you will need to be disabled “enough” to be unable to work in any industry, or have a disability that is listed on the SSA’s list of qualifying disabilities. Additionally, you need to have earned the appropriate number of work credits, which can vary based on your age and other factors. Typically this amount is forty total work credits. Twenty of these credits need to have been earned in the last ten years. 

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied

Did you know that nearly 75 percent of SSD claims are denied? That’s not to say that these denials don’t eventually go on to be approved, but you’ll need to file an appeal if you hope to be one of those claimants. The four levels of SSD appeals include the following:
  • Reconsideration
  • Administrative law judge hearing
  • Appeals council review
  • Federal court review
If you are facing a denial, it may be well-advised to get help with your appeal from a highly qualified attorney. If your claim is eventually approved, you can expect to be paid back pay from the month that you first applied for SSD benefits. 

Get in Touch with a MA Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you have already been issued a denial by the SSA, or if you have only recently been diagnosed with a disability and want to do everything possible to obtain a claim approval, contact a Boston social security disability lawyer at Joel H. Schwartz, PC. To schedule your free claim review at our firm, simply visit our website or give our office a call at 617-742-1170.

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