Know What Is In Store With Your Social Security Claim

If you have been unable to work at your job and are suffering from a medical problem, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Many applicants don't know what to expect when they begin working on their applications. Read below so that you will know what to expect with your Social Security claim for disability benefits.

Be Prepared to Wait

The Social Security Administration (SSA) was already behind on evaluating applications before the pandemic hit. Now, many Americans are suffering from the effects of the COVID-19 virus and need SSDI benefits because they are out of work. That means you can expect to wait several months before hearing from the SSA — either with an approval or a denial. For applicants, hesitating before applying can mean the wait is even longer. For help with your application, speak to a Social Security lawyer. Social Security lawyers understand how the process works and can help you get benefits faster by submitting a complete and accurate application the first time.

Know How Much to Expect

Unfortunately, many applicants are upset when they find out how much they will be receiving once their application is approved. Your Social Security benefit amounts are based on a calculation of your last several months of income. Unfortunately, SSA field offices are still closed due to the pandemic, so the SSA suggests calling for information about your account. If you have internet access and are comfortable using the internet, you can access your account online. There, you can view an estimation of your benefits should you be determined to be disabled. You can also view your earnings record and check it for errors. It's vital that your record be correct since your benefits are based on the reported income. In most cases, income information is gathered from the IRS.

You Might Be Denied SSDI Benefits

It's not at all unusual to be denied for various reasons. If you did not use a Social Security lawyer to help you prepare your application, you may not have filled the application form out correctly or included the needed information. If you are denied, you still can use professional legal help to obtain the benefits you need. You may only have a limited time to let the SSA know that you want to file an appeal. Once you contact a lawyer, they can help you convince the SSA to approve your benefits. Just being represented at an appeal hearing by a Social Security attorney can make your chances of being approved higher. To learn more about all the above, speak to a Social Security Disability lawyer soon.

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