Q: If I cannot work, how am I supposed to support myself while applying for social security disability?
A: It can take quite some time for an application for social security disability to go through the review process. Supporting yourself while you wait can be quite stressful. Given the duration some claims take, it is vital to examine and adjust your budget when possible. Try to eliminate all spending that is not mandatory. Even if you can pay for those things now, you need to have a financial cushion should your claim take a year or two. Put any money you save by cutting discretionary spending aside to help you through the time it may take to reach a decision about your social security disability claim. Some claimants restructure their financial obligations to help them through. Some utility companies, for example, offer low income energy assistance programs. Restructuring a mortgage to allow you to access equity or simply lower your monthly payments can be considered. Additionally, many individuals find that they can rely on friends and family for short term loans or other support. Look into aid programs to help with doctor bills and medication. It is important that you do not stop your medical care. Some churches and non profits have programs to help with prescription costs. Research any health benefits with the state for which you might qualify. You can also go to a free clinic program for certain things. Talk to your doctor about restructuring payment plans. Knowing that you are applying for disability, billing departments are more willing to work with you. You may also consider applying for local, state and federal public benefit programs. Some states offer assistance loans that you must pay back once you receive a decision on your social security disability claim. Section 8 housing aid or food stamp programs may be helpful if your wait is long. If your finances are in trouble because of your wait, it may be wise to seek counsel with a lawyer specializing in social security. You may be eligible for dire need assistance with social security. Dire need status can grant you financial assistance and help your case be processed more quickly.
Q: Is it possible to apply for social security disability benefits at an actual Social Security office?
A: You can apply for social security disability insurance online, over the phone or in person. It is often recommended that doing it in person is the best method. A face to face appointment with the disability manager who will handle your case gives opportunities for real contact that applying online or via telephone will not. The meeting will be your first opportunity to provide background on your claim and medical condition, and the disability case manager will get to see how your condition currently affects your ability to function. An in person appointment gives your claim the foundation for the application review process. Call the toll free number (800) 772.1213 for Social Security and ask for an appointment to submit your application for social security disability. Social Security will send you written notification of the appointment time and date.
Q: When should you expect notification of a decision on a social security disability case?
A: Decisions on some cases are reached within a few months, while others are not reached for years. The average time for a complete application to go through the initial review stage is 3 months.