Important Facts to Know About Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability (SSD) is a government-run program operated by the Social Security Administration (SSA), which offers financial support to disabled individuals that are unable to do substantial work. The process of receiving such compensation, however, can be rather complex and frustrating. Therefore, individuals who are inexperienced in handling such matters would benefit from hiring an experienced Staten Island Social Security Disability Lawyer to represent them.

The First Steps

Once you are injured and are unable to work, it is best to hire legal representation to walk you through the process. Otherwise, contact the Social Security Administration and make an appointment to file for disability benefits. Upon making the appointment, you will be sent a letter with your appointment date as well as a list of documents you need to provide during your appointment in order to get the benefits you need.

What Can You Expect During Your Appointment?

The interview with the Social Security representative will be either in person or over the phone, during which you typically complete the application. This can be a relatively lengthy process and you should free up at least an hour for the interview. To speed up the interview, you can fill out the necessary paperwork online.

How Does the SSA Decide If I Am Disabled?

There are several conditions an individual must meet in order to be considered disabled. While this information must be supported by your physician, your physician’s claim alone does not qualify you as disabled for SSD purposes. Both of the following must stand true:

You must be unable to do any substantial work because of your medical condition.

Your medical condition must be expected to last at least 12 months.

Other eligibility requirements may also pertain to your case. To understand what you need and if you are eligible to receive SSD benefits, it is suggested that you consult a lawyer.

Keep in mind that employing the services of a qualified Staten Island Social Security Disability Lawyer may increase your chances of having your application approved. In fact, the Inspector General of the Social Security Administration states that first-time SSD applicants can benefit from using representation when they initially apply. This is due to the education and guidance that experienced attorneys provide to their SSD clients to ensure that they have all of the necessary documents in order to have their claim approved.

If you are seeking an experienced Staten Island Social Security Disability Lawyer, consider Angiuli & Gentile, LLP. Supervising Partner of the law firm’s Social Security Disability department, Gary Angiuli, has over 27 years of legal experience.