Disability Application Process

If you suffer from a medical condition that has made you unable to work, you might qualify for disability benefits. However, the disability application process can be rather difficult to navigate.

When applying for government aid, you need to know what’s available. Of course, you also want to know what you qualify for and how to apply for disability. Let’s look closely at what’s available and how to apply.

What Types of Government Help can I Receive on Disability?

There are several types of disability you might qualify for. If you’re seeking government aid, you will likely work with the Social Security Administration to make a disability claim. Some options will help with long-term care, while others may help with child care, health care, or other benefits.

USA.Gov lists many different options for disabled people. Some of what they list include:

·         Social Security Disability Insurance – If you become disabled and have enough Social Security work credits within the right timeframe, you may qualify for SSDI.

·         Supplemental Security Income – Offered for disabled persons and those 65 years of age or older, this government program helps those with little or no income or financial resources. This is different than the common Social Security benefits.

·         VA Disability Benefits – If you suffered a service-related injury, you may qualify for disability compensation as a veteran.

Along with government aid, you will also find short-term disability insurance and long-term disability insurance as options. Both types of medical insurance can pay you if you become ill or injured. They are different, but both cover some of your income in this situation. You might be provided with this type of insurance through your employer, but you can also purchase your own policy.

Getting disability insurance to cover health care through government aid is also possible. If you’re disabled, you might qualify for:

·         Medicaid – Offers a free or low-cost medical program for those with disabilities.

·         Medicare – Another government medical insurance program, Medicare is offered for those under 65 years of age with specific disabilities or end-stage renal disease.

·         Affordable Care Act Marketplace – You can also find disability insurance options through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace if you don’t qualify for other disability benefits.

These government programs and Social Security disability benefits can help you get the financial support you need.

How do I qualify for Disability Benefits?

Each type of disability benefits application will have different eligibility requirements. Some programs may have an age requirement, while others fit with a specific medical condition. Before applying for any disability, make sure you understand the eligibility requirements.

A disability determination service can help you determine what you qualify for. You will get the maximum benefits you qualify for with the right service. Some programs you might qualify for are through Social Security, while others might be through a different human services office. Let’s look at a few disability programs and the eligibility requirements.

Qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

If you want to apply for SSDI, you must have worked jobs covered by social security. It’s also necessary to have a medical condition that meets the definition of disability from Social Security.

Eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Another form of Social Security Disability is SSI. You can qualify for this form of disability if you are 65 or older, disabled, or blind. You will need to be a U.S. citizen or a lawful resident. This Social Security program also requires that you have a very limited income and no or very few financial resources.

Qualifying for VA Disability Benefits

If you served our great country and became ill or injured, you might qualify for VA disability benefits at the taxpayer’s expense. You will find out your eligibility through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. You must have a current medical condition and must have served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training.

To be eligible, you must have gotten sick or injured while serving in the military. It’s possible to qualify if you became ill or injured before joining the military, but it was made worse by serving. You can also qualify if your disability shows up after your service ends.

Eligibility for Medical Disability Benefits

There are several medical programs for disabled individuals. Not all programs are free, but they will either be free or low-cost to you. Medicare is a common option; if you qualify for SSDI, you will likely qualify for the premium-free Medicare Part A. However, if you need Part B, this will come with a monthly premium, which will be deducted from your Social Security check.

How to Apply for Disability

Applying for disability can be done in a few different ways. You can use the online services to apply online, you can apply in person, or you can apply over the phone.

If you want to learn how to apply online, you must have your social security number and all other documentation. Make sure you are prepared or it could delay your application process.

It’s also possible to set an appointment to apply over the phone or in person. Applying for disability in person is done at your local Social Security office, for most programs. Make sure you have your medical record available and your social security number or card handy.

Whether you need help due to short-term disability in Texas or you need long-term disability care, there are programs to help you. Each different program may require a different application through one of the many online services. With the right help, however, applying for disability can become much easier.

Information to Have Available When You Apply for Disability

You will want to have your social security number and proof of your age available when you apply. Also, make sure you have the following documents handy:

Names, phone numbers, and addresses of any doctors, hospitals, clinics, or caseworkers you have worked with

·         Lab and test results

·         Dosages and names of medications you are taking

·         Any important medical records from your health care providers

·         Work History

·         Most recent W-2 form or Federal tax return

You may also need other documentation, depending on your situation. For example, you might need child support income proof if you receive child support. Other documentation for family members may also be necessary.

When it’s time to apply for disability benefits, you might need help navigating the process. At Benefits.com, we’ll help ensure you get the disability benefits you qualify for medically, ethically, and legally. We specialize in helping the at-risk and underserved disabled population of the United States.

With our help, you can present the right medical evidence. Our team will help you with the complex process of getting the disability benefits you deserve.