The Application Process of Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability benefits are part of a government program that has been set up to give benefits to specific people in the society. These are people that are inconvenienced is some way and they cannot work in the same way as the rest of the population. There are different benefits and it is vital to find out if you qualify for any of the categories. This is a government program and the qualifications are set by them. For you to be a beneficiary of this program you must fit the criteria set by the government.

Social security disability benefits as the name suggests are given to people who cannot work as a result of an injury. This injury could be one that has been acquired while in the process of working or it could be a disability that you were born with. The application process is extremely thorough and in some cases might involve the use of an attorney to represent your case. Statistics show that most first time applications are declined therefore, you might have to appeal the decision. It is vital to know the application process of social security disability benefits:

The first step usually involves you filling the application forms for social security disability benefits. The forms are readily available online. You can hire a lawyer at this juncture to help with the initial process but most people prefer to hire a lawyer after the initial application is declined. The forms require that you give your personal information especially details of the person with the disability. The application could be personal or in other cases parents applying for their child.

• The application process also involves going for a medical examination. The purpose of this medical examination is to determine the truth in your claim of disability. There are standards that the social security disability program has set as definition for a disability and the doctor has to show that the disability fits the criteria. The fees for the examination are paid by the government but it is important to note that the examiner is not a government agent. The examination is usually not with your regular physician. The examiner will then present the findings to the board to determine whether you are qualified to receive the benefits.

• After all these, the application will be considered and if you are successful you will start receiving your monthly payments. In case you are not successful then you can appeal the decision that will be considered and might get a hearing to present your case before the board. It is at this stage that most people prefer and are strongly advised to get representation from a lawyer who is qualified in this field.