A serious injury or illness may make it impossible for you to support yourself and your family members. Fortunately, if you have a sufficient work history to go along with your disability, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
To apply for SSDI benefits, you must have a qualifying disability. Even then, the disability claims process can be tough to navigate. Disability law is incredibly complex, after all. While being unable to work because of a disability is disheartening, receiving a denial of SSDI benefits may be downright depressing. By taking a few proactive steps, you increase your chances of receiving the disability benefits you deserve.
- Submit a complete application
Because the SSDI application is lengthy, you may feel the temptation to submit an incomplete packet. Doing so, however, is usually a mistake. Therefore, before filing your application, you must be certain it includes as much information as possible. Supplementing your filing with medical documentation, work records and other relevant information is also often necessary.
- Always meet deadlines
The SSDI application process often has tight deadlines you must meet. Failing to comply with these deadlines may have serious consequences for your initial application. Similarly, if you have already received a denial, you likely must act quickly to file an appeal. Either way, until you receive your benefits, you should keep an accurate calendar to be certain you do not forget to act on time.
- Report your medical complications
If you have a disability that interferes with your ability to work, there is a good chance your condition may deteriorate. While your initial filing should cover your symptoms, you may need to supplement your application with new information about ongoing medical complications.
- Follow a treatment plan
Even though you want to receive SSDI benefits, you also want to feel better. To accomplish both goals, you should follow your doctor’s treatment plan. This may include taking medications, undergoing surgical procedures or participating in rehabilitation.