How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits in South Carolina
Approximately 8.7 million individuals in the United States receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) each year. SSDI is designed to financially support disabled individuals who are unable to work due to a medical condition or those whose earnings are below a certain threshold. Although benefits can be a lifesaver for anyone living on a restricted budget, many applicants must wait a year or longer before being approved. This does not even consider the complexities of the application process, which, unfortunately, causes otherwise qualified applicants to forgo the headache.
If you have a physical impairment that prevents you from performing basic work tasks, you may be entitled to SSDI benefits. If you are interested in learning more or your claim has been denied, our social security disability lawyers at Oxner and Stacy in Georgetown, SC, are here to assist you.
Who Qualifies for SSDI?
SSDI is a benefit program offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides benefits to individuals who are at least 18 years old and are physically or mentally disabled. Eligibility is dependent upon your age, whether you have a condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability, and your work history.
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
- Your medical condition impedes your ability to (less than $1,620 on average per month, with a limit of $2,700 for blind persons).
- Your medical condition prevents you from performing basic tasks, inhibiting you from working at a previous job or any employment, despite making reasonable accommodations.
- Your condition is expected to last one year or longer, or is terminal; and
- You must have worked long enough and recently enough, earning at least 40 work credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the last ten years.
Process of Applying for SSDI
If you have little or no income, then you may qualify for both SSDI and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for disability. SSI covers basic living expenses, including housing, clothing, and food, for those with limited resources. Disabled or blind individuals, as well as those who are at least 65 years of age or older, may qualify.
To apply for social security benefits, you will need to fill out an online application. The following information will need to be provided:
- Your date of birth and place of birth
- If anyone has ever filed for Social Security benefits on your behalf
- Your social security number
- Name of current or former spouse(s)
- Your citizenship status
- Name and address of your employer
- The amount of money you earned this year and last year
- Your record of earnings
- A copy of last year’s W-2 forms or self-employment tax return
- Your original birth certificate
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- A copy of U.S. military service papers (if applicable)
Why Should I Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer?
There are a host of reasons why an initial application may be denied, some of which may disqualify you for benefits, while others require more information to be supplied to be approved. About 78% of initial SSDI applications are denied, necessitating further action for these individuals to receive the benefits they are due.
At Oxner and Stacy, we take a personal interest in each SSDI case, pursuing every means to get your claim approved. In some circumstances, you may be able to file a petition for reconsideration, which must be done within 60 days of the date of the denial notice. If your reconsideration request is denied, then we suggest you appeal the decision. Our objective is to obtain maximum benefits on your behalf, which involves understanding the SSA process and any potential holdups.
Why Wait? Contact a Georgetown Social Security Disability Attorney Today
Having a social security disability claim denied can create panic over your financial security. At Oxner and Stacy, we understand the gravity of what is at stake. For over three decades, our experienced counsel has assisted disabled individuals through the process of applying for government benefits. If you or a family member has recently been denied SSDI benefits, our Georgetown social security disability lawyers are here to help. To learn more, contact us online or by phone at (843) 983-2352 to schedule your free consultation.