Social Security Disability Insurance Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How soon should I apply for benefits?
A. You should not wait to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Although some cases are resolved more quickly, it can take years for an applicant to get approved for benefits. You must keep in mind; the longer you delay the application process, the longer you will go without financial help.
Q. When is a person considered disabled in the eyes of the Social Security Administration (SSA)?
A. To be deemed “disabled” by the SSA, an individual must have a physical or mental impairment that keeps him or her from being able to work or as the SSA states, “perform substantial gainful activity.” The impairment must also prevent the individual from working for at least 12 months or longer.
Please keep in mind; every case is different and different qualifications may be required in certain cases.
Q. How do the SSDI and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs vary?
A. The biggest difference between the SSDI program and the SSI program is the disabled individuals work history. To qualify for SSDI benefits, an individual must have accumulated a number of work credits. Impaired individuals who have not earned enough work credits or have no work history may qualify for SSI benefits.
Q. When can I expect a decision on my application for benefits?
A. The time is takes to get a decision on an application for SS benefits varies considerably from case to case. Some people get benefits within 30 days of filing an application and others may not get a cash award for years. Typically, most people can expect to get a decision within three to four months of filing.
To ensure your case is processed as quickly as possible, look to an ethical Social Security Disability lawyer at Social Security Disability Attorney Group in Los Angeles. They will make sure your case is processed in a timely manner and work to avoid any issues that may delay a decision.
Q. I’ve heard my spouse may be able to collect benefits too? Is this true?
A. Based on your occupation, your spouse and other members of your family may also be able to collect benefits. In most cases, spouses can qualify for disability benefits if they are over the age of 65 or are caring for a child under the age of 16.
Q. Is it expensive to hire a disability attorney?
A. At Social Security Disability Attorney Group in Los Angeles, all of the aggressive SSDI lawyers in our group represent cases on a contingent basis. Simply put, you won’t owe any fees until they win your case. You won’t be asked for any upfront fees and it won’t cost you a dime to discuss your case privately with one of the competent attorneys we work with.
For more information about our group and to learn how you can get benefits through either the SSDI or SSI programs, please contact our office right now at 213-271-1519.