How to Apply for Disability Benefits for Different Disabilities
As you might expect, there are procedures that you will have to follow when you make a claim for disability benefits and if you have a number of issues that need to be assessed that can make it more complicated when you apply.
What you will soon discover is that there are disability term differences and that means it is important to explore your options regarding short-term and long-term disability benefits.
Here is an overview of how to apply so that you have the best chance of getting everything you are entitled to.
Understanding the time-span.
It can be frustrating when you are in need of financial support and all you seem to be facing is more forms to fill rather than seeing any cash in your bank, but if you understand what the normal qualifying period and turnaround times are it should help your anxiety.
It would be a good idea to read guidance notes on the Social Security website as a starting point.
Although short-term policies are likely to provide access to benefits at a faster rate than long-term disability policies there is always going to be a waiting period before you start receiving any money.
There will be a period of time between sustaining an injury and receiving your benefits which are likely to be at least 14 days while the claim is processed, so be prepared for a wait that can be anything between a few weeks to many months.
You might want to consider hiring a lawyer who understands the claims process who can take care of your insurance claim if you have coverage and want to focus on getting better rather than stressing over filling out so many forms. You can also check out ndis provider in Sydney for more information.
Do you automatically qualify?
It is important to note that Social Security Administration publishes a so-called Blue Book which lists a defined set of physical and mental impairments that automatically qualify you for benefits if your health issues fall into one or more of these categories.
The list is extensive and the types of medical conditions are very diverse, ranging from musculoskeletal problems, such as back injuries, mental disorders, and a large number of skin disorders.
Although certain ailments and physical problems are clearly defined in the blue book there are plenty of gray areas and it is not always obvious whether you match the criteria.
That doesn’t mean you are not entitled to claim and receive disability benefits and it should be noted that you don’t have to satisfy the exact listing requirements for your particular condition or illness.
If you don’t meet the criteria.
The Social Security blue book is a guide and not a definitive statement of what qualifies and it is perfectly feasible that you will still be eligible for disability benefits if you don’t seem to meet the criteria described in the book.
If your condition means that you are unable to work Social Security will usually consider the impact of your condition and make a determination on your claim once they have reviewed all the facts of the case.
Some medical conditions are more straightforward than others and that means approval of your claim could be swift or it could take longer to resolve.
If you don’t think you are getting what you are entitled to make sure you seek out some professional help to fight your case.