What is Disability?
The United States government supplies financial benefits for those who are disabled through the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA specifies a disability as the failure to engage in substantial gainful activity due to medically determinable problems that have actually lasted or are anticipated to last a minimum of 12 months or lead to death. If you are struggling with a physical or mental problems that have left you unable to work, you may be entitled to benefits.
What Types of Benefits Are Available?
The federal government offers two primary kinds of benefits to those who are disabled. The first is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD or SSDI). SSDI is a benefit that is earned by paying into the system through earnings tax contributions. It does not matter just how much money you have paid into the Social Security system; just the duration of your payments is measured. If you have actually paid in for enough number of quarters annually, you are eligible for this benefit no matter your financial circumstance. The government will likewise provide financial settlement if you, your spouse or your child or kids become unable to work due to a disability. Even legal permanent homeowners who have actually paid in for the required length of time can get SSDI.
The second kind of disability benefit supplied by the government is Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI). SSI is available to those with few financial resources who are unable to work due to a disability. This program is means-tested, so even those who have actually never worked might be eligible. You do not have to be a U.S. resident to get approved for SSI; even permanent legal homeowners can qualify.
Why Do You Need A Disability Lawyer?
Despite the fact that the federal government provides these benefits, they are not easy to obtain. You need to subject yourself to an extensive administrative procedure in order to receive monetary support of this kind. First, you need to determine if you are qualified for SSDI or SSI, or both. You then should file an initial Social Security Disability application, which should include sufficient background details and documentary proof. If you do not offer all of the necessary data, your Social Security claim will be denied. Even when you submit a total application with all needed paperwork, it is possible that your claim will be rejected. If you have received a Social Security disability denial for any reason, you may have the ability to appeal the decision. The appeals process is even more complicated than the initial application. For that reason, it is important that you have a skilled Social Security Disability legal representative to guide you through the process.
Washington State Social Security Disability Law Firm
If you believe that you might be entitled to federal government benefits due to a disability, you need to speak with a lawyer. Contact our Bellingham Washington disability lawyers at (360) 392-3997 for an assessment today.