What is Social Security Disability?

Social Security Disability is a program setup through the Social Security Administration. It helps those who have a disabling medical condition that will last for at least one year that prevents them from working. This program is for those who are fully disabled and not partially disabled or have a short-term disability.

Earnings Requirements

There are 2 different tests that must be met before you can get disability;

     • The "Recent Work" test must be done and is based on your age at the time your became disabled; and
     • The "Duration of Work" test to show that you worked long enough under Social Security. Those that are
        blind may only have to meet the "Duration of Work" test.
 

Applying for Disability Benefits

You need to apply for Disability as soon as you become disabled. Expect to wait approximately 3 to 5 months to have your disability application processed. When you apply you will need to complete an application for Social Security Benefits and the Disability report. Your application may get processed more quickly if you are prepared to supply some the needed information from the beginning. The information that is needed is:

     • Your Social Security Number;
     • Your birth or baptismal certificate;
     • Names, addresses and phone numbers of the doctors, caseworkers, hospitals and clinics that took care of
        you and dates of your visits;
     • Names and dosage of all the medicine you take;
     • Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics and caseworkers that you already have
        in your possession;
     • Laboratory and test results;
     • A summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did; and
     • A copy of your most recent W-2 Form (Wage and Tax Statement) or, if you are self-employed, your federal
        tax return for the past year.

There are additional forms that must be completed as well. One form collects information about your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work. The other forms give doctors, hospitals and other health care professionals who have treated you permission to send information about your medical condition.

It is best to get as much information in as soon as possible. If you do not have all of the information available you can get assistance. Here we offer a Free No Obligation Evaluation from an attorney or advocate in your area, to help determine if you are eligible and to give assistance if requested.