Sometimes, an injury or accident can cause long term disability that will prevent an individual from working again. Such an event can change every facet of daily life, and a disabled individual may worry about financial security and their ability to obtain an income while unable to work.
The good news is there are resources available to people with disabilities to help them remain financially secure and build a fulfilling life. While the process to obtain these resources can be overwhelming, understanding the basics of Social Security Disability and retaining a Social Security Disability lawyer can help you receive the benefits you qualify for.
The Social Security disability program is a federal program under the Social Security Administration that was created to provide assistance to people with disabilities.
Social Security differs from workers’ compensation. While workers’ compensation covers temporary injuries and recoveries, the Social Security disability program is intended to provide support to people who have suffered disabilities or injuries that prevent them from working. Learn more about the differences between these two mechanisms in our recent blog.
Social Security disability benefits can apply in a number of situations, and different benefits exist to best serve the needs of the individual.
To qualify for SSD, an individual must have been employed for a period of time long enough to entitle them to benefits. An individual must also be unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or for the remainder of their life.
Your first step is to apply for Social Security disability in person, by phone, or online via the Social Security Administration website.
Regardless of your method of application, the information you need to provide will be the same. The Adult Disability Checklist provides a comprehensive overview of the materials and records you will need to complete your application, including employment history, medical records and direct deposit information. These materials will be submitted along with a Disability Benefit application and a medical release form.
Next, The Social Security Administration will review your application, ensuring you meet the basic requirements for disability benefits and have worked enough years to qualify.
Once processed, the application is forwarded to the Wisconsin Disability Determination Services office, who will complete the decision.
It is common for an initial application to be denied. If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision and have your case reviewed.
The process to apply for Social Security disability can be long and difficult, and many individuals who apply are often rejected or give up due to the intimidating process. The attorneys at Fitzgerald Law Firm have years of experience with the application and appeals processes and have the resources and industry insight to help you navigate the process and receive the benefits you deserve.
Fitzgerald Law Firm specializes
in Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability law.
We serve as an advocate for clients and provide high-quality legal representation to help them
fight for the benefits they deserve.
