If you cannot work because of a medical condition or injury that is expected to last at least a year, or that will result in your death, you can file for benefits from the Social Security Administration. Filing for Social Security disability in Philadelphia is an easy process, and the speed with which you receive your benefits depends on a number of factors.
How to File for Disability Benefits
The first step to filing for Social Security disability benefits is to contact the Social Security Administration and filling out the required paperwork, which you can do online or by telephone. It is recommended that you apply as soon as you become disabled, as it may take three to five months to process your application. If you choose the online application, follow the instructions and have the necessary information handy. You can save the application and return to complete it at any time if you cannot do it in one sitting.
If you contact the Administration by telephone, you will either need to make an appointment to visit them, or schedule an appointment for a telephone interview to fill out the form; it will take about an hour. The Social Security Administration will mail a starter kit to you to help you prepare for the interview.
Determining If You Qualify for Disability Benefits
There are several factors involved in determining if you qualify for Social Security disability in Philadelphia. Among the criteria studied are:
- Your age and how long you have worked
- The nature of your medical condition and the circumstances surrounding it
- Your ability to work and what type of work you may be able to do
The state’s Disability Determination Services office handles the medical information, gathering it and relaying it to the Social Security Administration.
Once the information is processed,the Administration will make a final determination and forward the decision to you. They may contact you by mail, over the telephone, or in person. For those who are blind or whose vision is severely impaired, there are several options available as to how you receive information from the Administration.
When a Claim Is Denied
If your claim is denied, that does not mean you have no recourse. There is an appeals process for those who believe the decision was invalid. The application for the appeal is available online.
You are allowed to have legal representation throughout the appeals process, and this is highly recommended. The laws regarding Social Security disability benefits can be convoluted and confusing, and having the assistance of someone with an in-depth knowledge of the system can help you receive the benefits you deserve. In addition, processing claims for Social Security disability in Philadelphia can be slow if you qualify, and legal assistance can help speed up the process.