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How do you know when it's time to file for Social Security Disability benefits? The Social Security Administration encourages individuals to apply for disability benefits as soon as they become disabled. This is because the application process can take months or years from start to finish. Individuals applying for Social Security Disability benefits should fill out the required forms as soon as possible, which can be downloaded from the Social Security Administration website. To ensure faster processing, make sure you supply all requested information and fill out each form in its entirety.

Social Security Disability Eligibility Requirements

In order to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance, you must be able to prove that you are disabled according to definitions provided by the Social Security Administration. The medical eligibility requirements are the most time-consuming aspect of filing a disability claim. Individuals with severe impairments must meet requirements of the Social Security Administration's Impairment Listing Manual.

In addition to meeting medical eligibility requirements, in order to receive SSDI individuals must also meet other requirements. The injury or disability must be severe enough that it impairs your ability to function in a work environment and must be expected to last at least one year. The Disability Determination Services (DDS) examine and analyze each claim through a five-step evaluation process.

The Social Security Administration, via the Disability Determination Services, which are state-based agencies, will determine whether you're capable of performing your past job, whether you can perform any type of job, and in what capacity, based on your age, skills, education and current physical or mental limitations.

One of the most important aspects of your claim will be the RFC, or Residual Functional Capacity. This measures your ability to perform activities. For example, a consultant will assess the level of physical exertion you're able to perform and what types of restrictions or limitations are placed on your job performance based on condition. Medical consultants also analyze information from your medical records and doctor's notes regarding physical restrictions and functional ability to determine your residual functional capacity.

If you have any questions about filing for Social Security Disability benefits, it is best to consult with a knowledgeable and qualified Social Security Disability attorney or advocate. Click here to receive a free evaluation of your claim by an attorney who serves your local area.

A Social Security Disability hearing is offered to individuals who have applied for SSDI benefits when their application has initially been denied. A first disability denial is relatively common, necessitating individuals to gather more paperwork or evidence according to comments made in the denial letter. In many cases, individuals may need to attend a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.

Any time an individual is applying for Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income benefits, the Social Security Administration requires medical documentation in order to prove the disability. This medical documentation comes in the form of a medical evidence, records, treatment histories and statements from treating physicians. However, when this information does not provide the SSA with enough evidence, they SSA will also require a consultative exam.

Individuals applying for Social Security Disability are required to fill out an initial Social Security Disability application. Unfortunately, this application process can take up to three or four months to complete. According to the Social Security Administration, approximately 30% of Social Security Disability applications are approved at this stage. The remainder of these claims must go on to appeal a denial of disability benefits.

A Social Security Disability hearing is an option that a potential Social Security Disability recipient may experience in the event that his or her Social Security Disability claim has been denied during the initial stage of the disability claim process. Individuals who have been denied disability have the opportunity to have their case heard by an administrative law judge, known as an ALJ.