To qualify for SSDI, it is necessary to see a doctor who will certify that a person’s condition meets all of the stipulations above. In order to continue receiving benefits, the beneficiary will often be required to “check in” with Social Security officials every few years for a re-evaluation, which includes a meeting and interview with a Social Security Administration expert. However, these evaluations are not medical checkups.
While many Americans are able to gain and receive their benefits without the help of a lawyer, there are also many cases where the initial determination will not be in an applicant’s favor. The Social Security Administration has provided a detailed appeals process that allows a potential beneficiary to challenge these rulings. However, the process is very complex, and expert legal counsel is very helpful in succeeding in the process.
Risks and Special Cautions Involved in Accepting SSDI Benefits
As noted above, it takes at least five months to begin receiving SSDI benefits. This period begins when your application is approved: It does not include time the application spends in processing or any time that you might spend appealing the initial rulings. You will not receive any benefits for these periods.
When you begin receiving checks, be sure to closely note the numbers related to your benefit amount. It is possible to be overpaid or underpaid benefits, and in the event of a shortfall, you want to communicate with Social Security right away. Likewise, if you are overpaid, you might owe the government back pay.
Note that there are other government programs similar to SSDI which may be more appropriate for an individual who is below the age of the majority, who is permanently, legally blind, or who suffers from other types of conditions. One program is Supplemental Security Insurance, or SSI, which can also apply to permanently disabled people. It may be worthwhile to review the details of this program with your attorney.
How Age, Retirement And Death Notices Affect Your Eligibility
If you are age 65 or older, you will not be eligible for SSDI. Likewise, if you have not worked enough to earn the required number of credits, you will not qualify for SSDI: However, if you have qualified for SSDI, your total disability means that your own retirement will not be a factor in computing further benefits, and the retirement of your spouse or dependents will usually not affect their benefits – check with your attorney. Should the beneficiary die, their dependents are not usually eligible for future benefits.
Although SSDI is simple once you have received it, you must be aware of all correspondence Social Security sends to you, and be sure to keep copies for your records. You are responsible for all information that the Administration might send! Should you lose your Social Security card, always remember to get a replacement card right away.
At the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello, we want you to know that getting Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits is not impossible. With the help of our law firm’s attorney, you can get the benefits you are entitled to for disabilities that prevent you from working. Contact a Delaware County Social Security Disability attorney to schedule a free initial consultation.
