Getting By After Submitting Social Security Benefits Claim
Posted by admin on Jul 16, 2009
Q: While you are awaiting a decision on a disability application for social security benefits, how are you supposed to support your family?
A: The application review process for social security benefits can take anywhere from a few months to few years. Claimants are told to expect a 90 to 120 timeframe for an initial application to be reviewed. A large number of initial applications are not approved after the first step. Most claimants who are denied choose to take the next step and have their case reconsidered and, if necessary, appeal for a hearing. Appeals will make your wait even longer. By the time a claimant has his case heard before a judge, he has often been waiting 2 years. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to anticipate the length of time it will take for a decision to be rendered on a claim for disability benefits. Since most people cannot work while awaiting a decision about their application for social security benefits, getting by financially can be a hardship. If you are able to work in a limited manner, you have to be aware of the impact it may have on your case. There are limits to the amount of income you can bring in. Unfortunately, no matter how small the workload, be aware that it could influence how your injury or condition is viewed by the reviewer. Regardless of whether you pick up work while awaiting a decision about your social security benefits, it is wise to take action now in case your claim takes longer than originally expected. Get rid of discretionary budget items and, instead, set aside the money. If you own your home, consider refinancing the original mortgage to free up funds. If you currently rent, look into finding a less expensive property. Contact family and friends who may be able to offer short term financial support. Submit applications for public assistance programs. Many gas, water and electric companies provide assistance to their customers in need, as well. Many medical billing departments will work out payment plans, if they know your particular financial situation. There are many non profit organizations that also provide assistance. Some groups pay for prescriptions for those who qualify.
Q: I live in Florida, currently collect disability social security benefits and am in danger of having my home foreclosed. What should I do?
A: You may be eligible for an exemption from Florida. An exemption will lower the assessed value on your home by up to $50,000. Apply for a disability exemption.
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If your claim is denied, you will want to appeal and have your case heard before an administrative judge. Hiring a social security lawyer to help your case through the appeal and hearing processes is advisable. An experienced lawyer knows the appeals process well and brings expertise that will be invaluable during an appeal. If you are awarded benefits after the hearing process, your social security lawyer will walk you through applying for retroactive benefit payments and assure the correct onset date is established. A case can be approved without attorney representation.
It is your right to obtain a copy of your file to allow you to prepare. Do so as soon as your hearing has been scheduled, so you can be confident that you are prepared.
Q: Can a claimant check in on where a disability case is in the process, or can only a social security lawyer do that?
A: A social security lawyer will keep tabs on where your case is in the process, but if you do not have one, it is smart to do it yourself. It is usually easiest to touch base with the examiner assigned to your claim, rather than the office where you filed your claim. You will need to call your local office, if you need the specific details for the disability examiner assigned to your case.
05 10003) stipulates the cut off amount for the present year and this amount changes from year to year depending upon the economic conditions. However, the Social Security Act does not recognize the validity of partial disability, and individuals claiming such conditions are not eligible for benefits. If the individual cannot perform the work he was able to in the past, the State agency looks to see if other alternative employment can be arranged. It evaluates the person’s medical condition, age, education, past work experience and any skills that may fit another role. Should such efforts prove fruitless, and the agency is unable to provide the person with an alternative to earn his livelihood, the status of the employee as disabled would still be considered by the agency.
Eligibility for SSI benefits, however, are dependent upon the financial needs of an individual. SSI is not dependent upon prior work contributions and credit. To be eligible for SSI, an individual cannot earn more than $1,433 per month in wages ($694 per month if the income is not from wages). An individual must report all wages, resources and income when applying for SSI. If you have any questions about whether you qualify for SSI or SSDI, contact a social security lawyer.
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