It is helpful for disabled individuals to know how to go about seeking Social Security disability benefits. Social Security disability benefits are important benefits for many disabled individuals and their families so having a plan for how to approach the application process can be useful.
The unfortunate reality is that two-thirds of applications for Social Security disability benefits are initially denied. To present a strong application for benefits that meets federal requirements, it is beneficial for applicants to know what they are looking for. Applicants for Social Security disability benefits must first meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. According to the Social Security Administration, an individual is considered disabled if they suffer from a medical condition that is so severe it prevents them from working and is expected to last 12 months or longer or result in death.
As part of the application process, the applicant will have to submit their medical records so it is important to keep organized and thorough medical records and to provide as complete a set of medical records to the Social Security Administration as possible. In addition, it is helpful to contact their doctor and have the support of their doctor because that is given some weight in the process of determining if the applicant suffers from a disability.
Because the process can take so long, it is also helpful for disabled individuals to file for Social Security disability benefits as soon as they know they will need them. Understanding how to apply, and what the process looks like, can be key for disabled individuals seeking important disability benefits.