Living with a disability comes with many challenges. Some individuals can manage alone, but many must rely on family and friends for daily support. Disabilities often render people unable to work, adding more frustration and stress to their lives.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers benefits to help individuals with disabilities live more fulfilling lives. Programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI or SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are just two types of benefits available. To qualify for these benefits, however, applicants must meet very specific requirements.
Disability Applications and Appeals
The disability benefits claims process is complex and can take months to obtain approval. The applications themselves are very detailed. They must be completed thoroughly and accurately.
Additionally, each disability has its own set of requirements that must be met. Each application must include supporting documents that meet the criteria for that disability. This can be confusing due to varied diagnoses and symptoms.
While only 30% of initial applications are approved, the decisions can be appealed. This process, too, is a lengthy and complicated one. Deciphering what to include and how to proceed can easily be overwhelming.