Jan 12

Q: How do people care and feed for their families, while they wait for a social security disability benefits claim approval?

A: The application review process for social security benefits can take anywhere from a few months to few years. Most cases take on average about 3 months to go through the initial review process. Most claims are denied during the initial review process. Most claimants who are denied choose to take the next step and have their case reconsidered and, if necessary, appeal for a hearing. The additional steps add time to process, of course. By the time a claimant has his case heard before a judge, he has often been waiting 2 years. It is very difficult to know how long it will take a particular social security disability case to go through the review process. Since most people cannot work while awaiting a decision about their application for social security benefits, getting by financially can be a hardship. Even those who can work in some capacity find it tricky. Your earnings must be below what Social Security has established as the substantial gainful activity limit. Unfortunately, no matter how small the workload, be aware that it could influence how your injury or condition is viewed by the reviewer. Regardless of whether you pick up work while awaiting a decision about your social security benefits, it is wise to take action now in case your claim takes longer than originally expected. Get rid of discretionary budget items and, instead, set aside the money. Many claimants refinance their property, so they will have money to put toward living costs while they wait. If you currently rent, look into finding a less expensive property. Some claimants are able to rely on loved ones for a loan or other resources during the interim period. Apply for any and all state and federal aid programs for which you qualify. Contact your utility companies to see if they offer aid programs. Speak with your doctor about billing plans that might be available to those awaiting benefits decisions. Look into charities that might be able to help. Some groups pay for prescriptions for those who qualify.

Q: I live in Florida, currently collect disability social security benefits and am in danger of having my home foreclosed. What should I do?

A: The state of Florida offers special homestead tax exemptions for which you may qualify. Such exemptions can reduce the taxable value of your property significantly. Request a disability exemption application.

Jan 10

Q: Can I get Social Security benefits for partial disability?

A: There aren’t many short, simple answers when it comes to Social Security benefits. But this question has one; and that answer is “no.” Though some other federal and state programs offer benefits to the partially disabled, social security benefits do not. According to the SSA, an applicant either has a qualifying disability, or he or she does not. When applying for social security benefits, you will either be considered 100% disabled or not disabled, making you either approved or denied.

Q: If my doctors say that treatment won’t improve my condition, why do I need to keep seeing them?

A: Even in the case that a medical professional cannot improve your condition, seeing a doctor regularly is very important for getting social security benefits. Why? Getting medical attention is key because the documentation it creates is a huge part of proving your disability and receiving social security benefits. As evidence of a disability, the SSA will look at your medical records. If there is little or no medical documentation of your disability, there is an overwhelming chance that your Social Security benefits claim will be denied.

When applying for Social Security benefits, the SSA considers it your own responsibility to document and track the progress of your disability. If you are applying or plan to apply for Social Security benefits, it is very important to regularly see a doctor; even if you’re not receiving treatment. Be sure your doctor keeps track of your symptoms to give the SSA a thorough history of your disability. The more supporting evidence found in your medical records, the greater your chance of being approved for Social Security benefits.

Q: I am able to work but not at what I used to nor can I earn the same money I used to. Am I allowed to apply for social security benefits?

A: Yes, you can still file for Social Security benefits. But this does not necessarily mean that your claim will be accepted. When the SSA decides whether or not you are eligible for social security benefits, one of the first things they look at is if you can do the same work you used to. If you cannot do that same work, they will then try to determine whether or not you can make a substantial income in another type of position. If you work, your eligibility for social security benefits will depend on the kind of work you do and how much money you make doing it.