How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits During a Pandemic

When a person becomes disabled and can no longer work and earn an income, they may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. These benefits are available to you and your immediate family if you meet the criteria. You must have earned sufficient credits by working for a sufficient period of time. You must have also worked recently and paid Social Security taxes.

However, applying for benefits is no piece of cake. The process is arduous, often taking many months or even years. Very few people are approved the first time around, so they often have to appeal their cases and hire lawyers. The process is even more complicated with the coronavirus pandemic.

Just like most other businesses, Social Security Administration (SSA) offices are closed. Getting a hold of someone by phone is next to impossible, unless you want to wait 90 minutes or longer. The backlog of people waiting for their benefits is growing by the day.

Therefore, if you become disabled in the near future, you should be aware of the process. Follow these steps to get through the process and obtain your benefits as soon as possible.

Apply As Soon As Possible

Don’t wait to file for Social Security Disability benefits. Even though there is a backlog, you want to file as soon as possible. The sooner you apply, the better. The average person waits more than seven months to file. Last year, 2 million people applied for these benefits, so if they apply at the same rate this year, with COVID-19 going on, you can bet there will be significant delays. After all, there are 600,000 people waiting for a decision right now.

Hire an Expert

Get an expert on your side early on to avoid mistakes. There may be local agencies who can help you with your disability application. However, you may have to hire a lawyer. You may not want to pay money to get your benefits, but doing so will increase your chances of approval. A lawyer who specializes in Social Security benefits can help collect evidence and required information so you have a detailed application. They can also communicate with the SSA and advise you of the status of your claim. A skilled lawyer can help you avoid denials, so you can get your benefits quicker.

Get Help Returning To Work

Many people avoid applying for benefits because they don’t want to give up. While many disabled people never return to work, many do with help from the SSA. The SSA has many benefits for job seekers, such as the Ticket to Work program. This program matches workers with employers and allows them to work for a trial period to see if they have any limitations.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability benefits are hard to get even in the best of times. However, you should not let that deter you. You should still file for benefits in a timely manner.

White Plains Social Security disability lawyer Michael Lawrence Varon can help you with your claim. We will ensure it is as complete and accurate as possible so you have the best chance of getting approved for benefits. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call 914-294-2145.

Resource:

kiplinger.com/personal-finance/insurance/600945/applying-for-disability-benefits-during-a-global-pandemic

https://www.nycompensationlaw.com/why-are-social-security-disability-claims-denied/