One of the scariest things that can happen to you is losing the ability to work. When this happens, you may no longer be capable of providing for your family. This is especially tragic if you need to stop working due to medical reasons.
If you have a serious medical condition or injuries that keep you from working, you may qualify for social security disability benefits. There are specific requirements that you must meet to receive benefits. After meeting the eligibility requirements, you will need to prove that your disability makes working impossible. You will also need to provide the correct information for your application to get approved.
What makes you eligible for disability benefits?
As per the Social Security Administration (SSA), in order to be eligible you must have employment history and proof of payment for your social security taxes. Eligibility also requires a certain number of work credits, typically about forty credits. Your disability should be one that doctors expect to last a minimum of one year and prevent you from performing tasks at your previous job or adjusting to other work.
There are some exceptions to these rules. If, for example, you have Lou Gehrig’s disease, leukemia, and pancreatic cancer, your disability claim processing might be faster.
What can you present as proof of disability?
Proving disability is crucial in getting the benefits you need when you can no longer earn a living. Presenting medical documentation is the first step towards proving disability. This can include all relevant records pertaining to your condition, including all assessments and prescriptions from your doctors and your treatment plan. It may also help if there is documentation stating that you are receiving treatment according to plan and taking all prescribed medications. A detailed description of how your disability impairs specific tasks may strengthen your claim.
The key to getting your benefits is to be consistent with all your proof. Seeking advice from a knowledgeable attorney may help you navigate the complexities of applying for disability benefits.