You May Be Entitled To SSDI Benefits Without Realizing It

6 December 2021
 Categories: Law, Blog

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When you are disabled and are unable to work, you will want to file for Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits as soon as possible. After all, you have been paying into Social Security, and this is what this program exists for. However, you may be reluctant to seek SSDI benefits because you believe one of several myths about the program.

Don't Assume You're Not Qualified

You might believe that you need to be disabled for up to a year before you can file for SSDI benefits. However, you can actually file for benefits at any point as long as your disability is expected to persist for up to a year.

Your Age Doesn't Matter as Much as You Think

You are also allowed to apply for SSDI benefits regardless of your age. You do not need to be near the age of retirement and simply only need to be disabled. However, the longer you have worked and the more you have paid into the system, the more benefits you can receive.

Your Condition Doesn't Have to be Listed

Having a condition that is listed in the blue book can make it much easier to be approved for benefits, but it is not a requirement. As long as you are able to prove that you are not able to work due to your injuries, you will be able to receive SSDI benefits.

The Process Won't Take Years

Unfortunately, the SSA can take weeks or even months to process your claim. Even though this might take some time, you will be entitled to compensation for benefits even prior to your claim being approved. For example, if it takes three months to approve your benefits, you may receive three months' worth of benefits immediately.

Depending on the severity of your condition, you might also be entitled to a compassionate allowance. If you are suffering from a condition in which you are not expected to recover from and which is expected to lead to your death, you may receive your SSDI benefits within a much shorter time frame.

Whether or not you are able to receive SSDI benefits will ultimately come down to the opinion of the officials at the SSA. Even if you have a licensed medical provider who claims that you are disabled, you will need to work with a Social Security disability lawyer to make a case for why you should be approved for benefits. Contact a local law office, such as The Law Office of Burke Barclay, to learn more.