You Have A Right To Benefits For Disabled People If You Are Unable To Work Due To A Medical Condition

If you suffer from a common medical condition or disability keeping you from work, you could be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). You have a right to benefits which you have paid into throughout your life working and contributing to Social Security taxes.

If you have given up on the application process because it is complicated, or you were unaware of your ability to apply, assistance from a disability advocate like Aaria Connect can take care of the application process for you. Here we explain your rights, the benefits available and how to increase your chances of approval through the often-complicated application process.

All Working Americans Have a Right to Collect SSDI

Often there is a stigma associated with SSDI that can keep some people from applying. However, all working Americans contribute to SSDI funding through Social Security taxes. For every paycheck you have earned throughout your working life, you have contributed 6.2% of your earnings.

Although how much you contribute changes based on wage averages, 5.015% of your contribution goes towards Social Security retirement/survivor benefits and the rest goes to disability insurance. This is why you should always apply for SSDI as soon as possible when you find you are too sick or suffer from a disability that keeps you from working. Because you have worked, between your own contributions and your employer, it actually comes out to 12.4% paid toward Social Security taxes on your behalf.

Through your hard work, you have earned the right to receive SSDI benefits. A good way to think of your SSDI benefits is the same way you would for any other kind of insurance. Your taxes are similar to the premiums you pay for insurance payments, while your benefits are the money you have a right to when you need to make a claim.

When Should I Apply for SSDI?

You can apply for your SSDI as soon as you are disabled or unable to work due to health conditions. Because it can be a long and drawn-out process, the sooner you apply the sooner you can receive the benefits to which you are entitled. You are looking at a five-month waiting period, which means it takes an average of six months to get your first payment. In fact, the date you receive your disability insurance benefits is based on the first full month after the date social security decides your disability started. However, there are some conditions that can speed up the process if you suffer from a disability or condition on Social Security’s Compassionate Allowances (CAL) program.

How Do I Apply for SSDI?

An application can be made either online or by phone. However, there is a free Disability Starter Kit available, so you are prepared for your disability interview or online application. This provides the information you need so you understand what documents will be required in the application process. It is a good idea to request a kit before making a call. Generally, claims go through a group called Determination Services or DDSs. They consider your application based on a long list of criteria. Generally speaking, you will require the following medical information:

• Diagnoses
• Emergency Room Visit Logs
• Treatment History
• Medical Testing & Results
• Medical Background & History
• Statements from Physicians

Keep in mind the more medical records and information you can provide, the greater the chances you will be approved. Missing records lead to delays which can add months to the approval process.

Why Should I Consider Using a Disability Advocate?

Unfortunately, as many as two-thirds of disability claims are rejected without the assistance of a disability advocate. Disability advocates like Aaria Connect ensure all of the relevant information required is provided with your first application which helps the process run smoothly. The more questions SSA has, and the more information they request, the longer it takes to process and approve your claim.

Should any questions or further information be required during the initial stages, we work to find that information quickly and submit it on your behalf to reduce delays. An advocate also has the experience to look for opportunities to fast-track your application based on the CAL program. We consider your condition and do everything in our power to help see favorable outcomes. We also fight on your behalf should your claim be rejected and continue to represent you during your appeal.

What Services Do Advocates Provide?

As your disability advocate Aaria Connect assists with the following:

Preparing Your Application: Following a consultation, we will collect and prepare your paperwork and medical documents, so everything is in order for your application. This is a time-consuming step that can be challenging for those with a disability or who are suffering from a medical condition. With all your paperwork and documents in order, we avoid delays while also ensuring your chances of acceptance are increased.

Look Into Fast Tracking Options: As mentioned above, there are different scenarios and conditions that allow some applicants to be fast-tracked due to their condition or status. For example, war veterans can often see their applications go through faster using the proper channels. We ensure we explore all possible avenues to speed up the application process researching the criteria required for CAL to see if any apply to your condition or disability.

Ongoing Support: We work with the SSA during the application process and are also available to answer any questions you might have. As well we reduce stress for those with mental illness who might have particular challenges coping with the process.

Follow Up: We act as a liaison when anything is missing, or issues come up related to your case. Any further documents or records requested will be provided through your disability advocate.

Appeals: Last but not least, should your claim be denied, we will fight on your behalf to help ensure you get your full entitlement.

At Aaria Connect Disability Advocates we’re here to fight for you. When you receive advocacy support, claimants are twice as likely to win. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more.