When personal injuries and illnesses are severe enough to keep you out of work, the consequences that stem from that lack of income could affect every portion of your life, from your financial security to your relationships. Fortunately, injured people who are unable to work may qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
However, applying for Social Security benefits can be frustrating and complex. After completing an initial application, the Social Security Administration (SSA) typically demands a comprehensive employment history that includes documentation of your daily activities, as well as detailed medical records. Failing to provide this documentation could result in your claim being denied.
If you find yourself injured and unable to work, it may be beneficial to contact a Charleston Social Security lawyer. A dedicated employment attorney could help you understand the various Social Security programs, review your eligibility, and file an application or appeal on your behalf.
Charleston Social Security Application Process
Applying for Social Security disability benefits begins with an application which may be completed in person or online. Before filing, those seeking benefits may wish to collect relevant information, including:
- Work history
- Documentation of injury
- Documentation of impact on work
- Medical history
- Educational details
The Importance Filing a Social Security Claim Properly
Applicants should attempt to be as thorough as possible when completing an application for social security benefits. If an applicant does not fill out or file their claims properly, it is more likely the SSA would deny said claim. It may be a good idea to have a Charleston Social Security attorney help with collecting relevant information, documenting injury and disability, and completing an application.
If an applicant receives an initial denial, they have the option to file an appeal. Upon denial of an appeal, individuals may be asked to attend a hearing before a judge, who would make a final decision on the matter.
The process of having a case heard by a judge could take many years from initial filing to finish. In order to secure benefits as quickly as possible, retaining a social security lawyer in Charleston to help reduce the chance of improper filing may be key.
What Benefits Are Available Under Social Security?
Social Security benefits generally one of two programs, or occasionally both. One of the programs people may apply for is Supplemental Security Income or SSI. SSI provides benefits for people of any age who are injured or ill and are unable to work any job, including minimum wage positions.
SSI carries a maximum asset and family income requirement. This means if an injured person’s spouse works a full-time job, the family may make too much money to qualify for SSI. However, there is no previous job history required to qualify for this program.
The second program is Social Security Disability Income or SSDI. While this program also covers those too sick or injured to work, there are no income requirements placed on SSDI. Instead, those seeking SSDI must demonstrate a significant work history in order to qualify.
Speaking with a Charleston Social Security Attorney
Applying for social security disability benefits can be a draining process. Applications require detailed information concerning medical records, vocational history, and your day-to-day activities, and there is also a chance you may have to go through denials and appeals as well.
However, a dedicated Charleston Social Security lawyer could help alleviate some of the stress associated with these processes by working to gather medical records, complete applications, and appeals, and, if necessary, appear before a judge to plead your case. If you in the process of applying for social security or are considering seeking disability benefits, call today and set up an initial consultation to go over your options.
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