Are you wondering what SSDI is and if you’re eligible to receive benefits?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program that provides financial assistance to individuals who have become disabled and are unable to work. If you believe that you may qualify for SSDI, it is important to understand the application process and eligibility criteria so that you can begin the process of applying for benefits.
To be eligible for SSDI, you must meet certain criteria such as:
- Having worked enough quarters in the past 10 years before becoming disabled
- Being at least 18 years old or older.
- Being found medically disabled by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
- Have a qualifying disability that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
If approved, SSDI can provide monthly benefits as well as medicare coverage after 24 months of receiving benefits.
Also, it is possible to receive both SSDI benefits and other forms of income, such as workers’ compensation or unemployment benefits. However, your total combined income may be limited each month depending on the type of benefits you are receiving.
What do you need to apply for SSDI?
To apply for SSDI, you need to:
- Fill out an application online or in person at your local Social Security office.
- Provide supporting medical evidence of your disability and proof of work history.
- Be patient. The application process can take several months and may require multiple appeals before approval.
The following must be determined to find out whether someone is eligible for SSDI benefits in Boston:
- You must have worked and paid taxes into the Social Security system for at least five years before the onset of the disability.
- Your medical condition prevents you from being gainfully employed.
- Your disability prevents you from doing the work you used to do or adjusting to other forms of employment.
- Only total disabilities are considered in this program. That means, it must last for at least one year or lead to death.
- The claimant must not have enough income or resources to support themselves without SSDI benefits.
- The potential beneficiary must be a Boston resident.
Were you denied? Contact a social security disability attorney in Boston
If your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefit is denied, you have the right to appeal. You can file a request for reconsideration or an administrative law judge hearing. It’s important to act quickly and follow the proper steps to preserve your rights.
Remember that there are time limits for filing requests and appeals. A denied claim must be appealed within 60 days of receiving the notice. If you miss this deadline, you will have to start the application process again.
It is crucial at this point, to contact an experienced social security disability lawyer in Boston. They can help you navigate the complicated appeals process and make sure that you receive the full benefits you deserve. Boston social security attorneys understand how to best present your case so that it stands the highest chance of being approved.
Which is the process your Boston social security disability lawyer may go through?
There are several steps that you and your social security attorney in Boston will have to go through to overturn the SSA decision:
File a Request for Reconsideration. This is a request to have your application reviewed by someone other than the person who originally decided on your claim. Make sure you include any additional information or evidence that may help support your case.
File an appeal with an administrative law judge, if the Request for Reconsideration is denied. You may need to attend a hearing to present your case. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to explain why your claim was denied and provide evidence or testimony that supports your position.
Take time to review all of the information in your file. Make sure any relevant medical evidence is included.
A denied claim must be appealed within 60 days of receiving the rejection. If you miss this deadline, you will have to start the application process again.
