Greensboro Social Security Disability Attorney Answers Faqs On The Application Process

If you are wondering about the SSD application process, we can help. Call 704-815-6055 today to speak to a Greensboro Social Security Disability Attorney.

Social Security disability is designed for individuals who become ill or injured and are not able to work for an extended period of time. Keep in mind that this program is different from a state disability plan, and the requirements for eligibility are such that the application process can be complex and confusing. It is to your advantage to work with a Greensboro Social Security disability attorney who can help you at all stages of the process. The following are some of the more frequently asked questions clients ask about SSD. 

Does North Carolina Offer State Disability?

Certain states offer their own short-term disability plan that is paid for through payroll deductions. However, as a Greensboro Social Security disability attorney will tell you, this is not the case in North Carolina.

I HEARD THAT SSD IS HARD TO GET. WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS?

In a nutshell, a person may be eligible for SSD if they are injured or become ill to the extent that they are not able to work for a period of at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration uses a complex formula to determine eligibility, so it is best to work with aGreensboro Social Security disability lawyer.

Why Does The Ssa Make It So Difficult?

It may not be on purpose. SSD is a federal program, and government agencies tend to get bogged down in red tape. Your Greensboro Social Security disability attorney will discuss with you the five-step evaluation process SSA uses to determine eligibility. This process is based upon both whether you are able to work or engage in a “substantial gainful activity,” and whether your condition meets or equals those in the listings.

Is There A Minimum Time I Need To Work To Become Eligible?

Your Greensboro Social Security disability attorney will tell you that you must have worked a certain number of quarters to qualify for SSD. This is not a set number, but is determined by the age when you became impaired. Work quarters are not necessary to be eligible for SSI.

How Do I Apply?

You will need to fill out the application and include both the Adult Disability Report and Disclosure Authorization Form. Your Greensboro Social Security disability attorney can help with all of these documents and make sure you don’t unintentionally omit any information that may hold up approval. You can apply either online, by telephone or in person.

What Is The Approval Process?

Once you have submitted the application you will have a waiting time of 3-5 months before a decision is rendered. During this time, the SSA office will conduct an analysis of your earnings requirements and send the application to North Carolina Disability Determination Services. At this facility, a claims examiner will decide on your eligibility. Your Greensboro Social Security disability attorney will advise you that this agency is not an arm of the SSA, but is merely contracted to handle applications.

What Are The Biggest Mistakes Claimants Make?

First, failing to get all the medical care necessary to heal can prove very costly. However, the mistake made most frequently by claimants is that they give up when they receive their first denial rather than appeal.

What Is The Appeal Process?

It is very common to have your claim denied on the first try, so don’t get discouraged. You can and should appeal your denial each time until you have a hearing before an administrative law judge. If your appeal is denied at that stage, you can still appeal to the Appeals Counsel. As a last resort, you can appeal in federal court. There is a deadline of 60 days for each of these appeals, so be careful not to file too late. This is all the more reason to work with a Greensboro Social Security disability lawyer.

If You Need To File For Disability

If you have become disabled, it is important that you seek help to prevent unnecessary delays. Work with a Greensboro Social Security disability attorney who is dedicated to making sure you get the help you need. Call Bridgman Law Offices today at 704-815-6055.