subject: Learn About Social Security Disability Requirements [print this page] Learn About Social Security Disability Requirements
Becoming disabled is one of the scariest things that can happen to a person. It can change your life in one snap and turn it upside-down. People may say life must go on and it's true. However, facing the new chapter of your life will surely be challenging and yes, wearisome. There is huge possibility that your limited capability is not suitable to your old job. What if you can no longer find a good source of income?
Social Security disability is a financial support of the federal government given to eligible disabled individuals. This is notable option to consider especially if finding a significant work seems impossible because of your disability. Disabled persons who cannot qualify for either welfare benefits or Medicaid still have a chance to apply for Social Security disability program.
Social Security Disability Requirements
However, not everyone can simply file a claim for Social Security disability and request for financial support. There are requirements and procedures to determine if applicant is eligible or not.
Eligibility
Social Security disability is one of the biggest support programs of the federal government to disabled individuals. This program, however, only give grants to applicants with sufficient years of employment and must have contributed adequately earlier into the program through payroll checks. Applicant should also provide verification that he or she is truly "disabled" by undergoing a medical diagnosis.
Time Frame
Disabled applicants below 24 years old should have an employment record with duration of at least 1.5 years prior to the time of disability. Applicants with age ranges from 24 to 30 must garnered a work experience of half of the time before becoming disabled. 31 and above applicants should have worked for over 4 years before the time of disability.
Documents Required
Documentary requirements must include the following: Your birth certificate and Social Security card are both required to establish the identity. You need to submit W-2 or a recent copy of tax return for self-employed people is also needed as proof of recent income. Work record and medical records are also required. Medical records should include the following: Laboratory and test results, list of all the medicines taken along with the dosages, doctor's records and therapist records.
Procedure
After submitting the Social Security disability requirements as required, the five-step process follows. This is the central point of influencing the decision as regards to your eligibility for disability insurance. The government standards are stringent and thorough so expect that this is not a walk in the park. The submitted documents should demonstrate your inability of finding work because of the disability.
Accepted or Denied
Of course, the final step is the nerve wrecking part. The decision will be contained in a letter, informing whether your claim for Social Security disability is approved or declined. Regardless of the decision, an explanation must back it up. If your claim is accepted, you will be informed about the amount of claim or benefit and the date of payment.
If it is not a happy ending despite sending all the essential Social Security disability requirements, don't lose hope. You can still file an appeal or find a good lawyer to represent you.
