If you have a loved one who is unable to work because of a medical condition, he or she may qualify for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA oversees two different disability programs, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). If specific medical criteria are met and if the condition will last at least 12 months or is expected to result in the claimant’s death, then he or she should be approved.
However, applying for disability benefits can be a challenging process. It requires gathering up supporting documentation and medical records and completing the disability claims form. Sometimes a claim is denied and a request for reconsideration must be filed. After a couple of denials, you can request a hearing for reconsideration where an administrative law judge will review the details of the case and determine if the claimant is eligible for disability benefits.
When The Claimant Is Too Sick To Apply For Disability
In some cases, the claimant may be too sick to apply for disability benefits on his or her own behalf. In that case, help is available. A representative can handle the claims process for the disabled individual. An advocate or a disability attorney can handle the claims process and help your loved one be approved for disability benefits. A friend or family member can also help the disabled individual through the claims process, filling out the necessary forms for the claim. If a friend or family member completes the forms, the SSA will follow-up with the claimant and will ask for the signature of the disabled individual or for the person who serves as their power of attorney or representative.
The application process for both SSDI and SSI can get underway online at the SSA website. However, the SSI will follow up to complete the SSI application. All the forms for SSDI claims are available online. Social workers can also help with the claims process, and in many states, social services will help parents apply for disability benefits for their disabled children. The SSA also knows that some claimants are too ill to attend their own hearing – if the claim reaches that point. You can authorize someone to represent you at the hearing, such as an advocate, a social worker, a disability lawyer, a relative, or a friend.
The Key To A Successful Claim
The key to any successful disability claim is providing supporting documentation, specifically hard medical evidence. Be sure to find all medical records, including physician notes, prescription records, and details about limitations and restrictions to include with the file for consideration. Make a detailed list of the healthcare providers along with their addresses and phone numbers so records can be obtained. You can help your loved one get access to the disability benefits that they need if they are unable to work because of a medical condition. To start the application, visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.
