While many people opt to handle the process of applying for Social Security benefits by themselves, there are many instances wherein hiring a Social Security lawyer can make things a lot easier. There is a large number of disability claims that are denied because of mistakes made at the beginning of the application process. The good news is that these decisions can often be reversed in favor of the applicant, once he or she hires an experienced Social Security lawyer to assist in the appeal process.
How long will it take before Medicare coverage takes effect?
If you currently receive Social Security disability benefits, you will automatically be qualified for Medicare benefits. Information about your Medicare benefits and your Medicare card will be sent to you shortly before you reach the age of 65 or before your 24th month of disability. In some cases, you may not be enrolled automatically in the Medicare program, particularly if you are not currently receiving any Social Security benefits. In this situation, you will have to set up an appointment with the office of the Social Security Administration. Upon receiving your application, the Social Security office will decide whether or not you are eligible for the program.
What does it mean if you are short one credit for disability insurance?
The Social Security Disability Insurance program requires applicants to have a certain number of credits that they have earned during a certain period, as well as a certain amount in earnings ten years before being disabled. Credits are earned every quarter of the calendar year. The Social Security Administration requires applicants to earn a specific amount in the course of a quarter. In order to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, you should have accumulated credits for 20 quarters or more…which is equivalent to five years…during the last 40 quarters or ten years before you became disabled.
Working while you have a Social Security claim pending
Many people seem to think that they are not allowed to file for Social Security disability benefits while they are currently working. The fact is that you CAN actually apply for benefits, make an appeal, and even receive social benefits while you are currently working. Keep in mind however that your monthly income cannot be higher than your SGA or substantial gainful activity amount, which is $900.00. This is because the Social Security Administration does not considers applicants that are able to earn this amount disabled.
May 23rd, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Q: Are there any set time limits within which a decision on a social security disability claim has to be made?
A: Unlike with other government benefits programs, there is no set deadline within which an application for social security disability must be initially reviewed. The average time it takes most cases to be initially reviewed, however, is about 90 days. In spite of the lack of mandatory timelines for the first review step for an application, it is important to note that there are deadlines for appeals. If you miss deadlines for social security disability appeals, it can affect your claim. Most often, you will need to file a new application and start at the initial review process again.
August 9th, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Additionally, a lawyer can help establish the best date of onset for your condition and file for any back pay benefits.
Q: Will an attorney take care of all my paperwork for disability insurance?
A: A social security lawyer will make sure that all forms are completed appropriately and on time. Knowing that, it is also important for you to be in the loop about all forms and deadlines. You should communicate with your lawyer frequently. Although the attorney will make sure you complete everything, some forms should be your responsibility.
August 18th, 2009 at 3:58 pm
Incomplete or lack of current data about your condition will slow the review process and, possibly, eventually cause a denial of benefits. Always confirm that your case manager has updated information regarding your address and phone numbers. And respond to any requests regarding your case. The representative handling your social security disability application wants to reach a decision too, so be polite and helpful. Finally, be your own advocate and know where your case is in the review process by periodically contacting your claims representative about the status.
September 14th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Most experts do not recommend an OTR review, unless the medical condition or injury of the claimant has worsened. A final alternative to help speed up the social security disability hearing process is through a congressional inquiry. Having legal representation is extremely beneficial if you plan to try to speed up the hearing date for your claim.
Q: Are there witnesses for a social security disability hearing?
A: Judges base their decisions on medical records and information. Witnesses are allowed during the hearing, but it is up to the judge for your case to decide if the testimonies of witnesses will be used.
October 23rd, 2009 at 2:07 am
Great blog info.
December 18th, 2009 at 7:01 am
The office of your Congressman or Senator must contact the Office of Hearings and Appeals on your behalf. Regardless of what method you choose to try to speed up the hearing process for your social security disability claim, it is generally recommended that you seek counsel from a lawyer or legal advocate.
Q: What is an onset date?
A: The date of onset is simply when your medical condition began and, as a result, you could not longer be employed. It is important to establish an accurate date of onset, since all social security disability benefits due to you will be based on that date.
Q: Does everyone who is awarded social security disability benefits receive back pay?
A: No, not all claimants receive back pay.
January 15th, 2010 at 8:06 am
Great information. This was a great post.
January 17th, 2010 at 8:11 am
Groovy blog.