Doctors, Employment, and Social Security Benefits Eligibility
Posted by admin on Jan 8, 2009
Q: Can I get Social Security benefits for partial disability?
A: In the world of social security benefits, there are not many clear cut answers. But in this case, the answer is a simple “no.” Though some other federal and state programs offer benefits to the partially disabled, social security benefits do not. According to the SSA, an applicant either has a qualifying disability, or he or she does not. When applying for social security benefits, you will either be considered 100% disabled or not disabled, making you either approved or denied.
Q: My doctors say that there is no treatment that can help me, so why do I have to keep going to doctors?
A: Even if a doctor cannot treat your disability, seeing a medical professional is a very important part of having your Social Security benefits claim approved. Why are doctors so important? Getting medical attention is key because the documentation it creates is a huge part of proving your disability and receiving social security benefits. For proof of your disability, the SSA will thoroughly explore your medical records. If there is little or no medical documentation of your disability, there is an overwhelming chance that your Social Security benefits claim will be denied.
When applying for Social Security benefits, the SSA considers it your own responsibility to document and track the progress of your disability. If you wish to apply for Social Security benefits, it is key to be specific and forthright about your symptoms when you speak with your doctor; even if you’re not receiving treatment. Be sure your doctor keeps track of your symptoms to give the SSA a thorough history of your disability. The more documentation and evidence you have for your disability, the better your chances of getting social security benefits.
Q: My disability allows me to work, but I cannot earn the same amount of money I did before. Can I still file for Social Security benefits?
A: Yes, you can still file for Social Security benefits. But this does not necessarily mean that your claim will be accepted. When calculating a claimant’s eligibility for Social Security benefits, one of the most important questions they will ask is whether or not your disability allows you to do the work you did previously. If you cannot do that same work, they will then try to determine whether or not you can make a substantial income in another type of position. If you work, your eligibility for social security benefits will depend on the kind of work you do and how much money you make doing it.
Is Your Child Eligible for Social Security Benefits?
Posted by admin on Jan 3, 2009
Q: Can my children obtain SS benefits under my account if they do not live at home with me?
Whether or not your children can receive benefits will depend on your specific relationship with them. In order to be eligible for social security benefits, your child must depend on you financially. Whether they live with you or not, your child will automatically be considered your financial dependent if you share any of the following relationships with them:
• He or she is your legitimate child
• The child is your legally adopted child
• He or she is your natural but illegitimate child for whom a judge has issued a determination of support, or for whom you make regular financial contributions.
If you have a recognized, illegitimate child who does not reside in your home, and for whom a judge has not made an official determination of support, you can give evidence of that child’s financial dependence upon you by providing:
• Evidence that the child is eligible as your dependent under other programs (state and federal)
• Old W2s and other tax forms showing that you claimed your child as a dependent
• Bank records, cancelled checks, etc., showing that you made regular payments on behalf of or in support of your child
• Other evidence of the child’s dependence