Breaking Down The Social Security Disability Process

Getting Social Security Disability benefits (SSD) can seem intimidating. The Social Security Administration – the federal agency that handles disability benefits – can feel huge and daunting. Understanding the Social Security Disability process can help you get a better picture of what to expect.

At Curt Hamilton Injury Law, we work with people throughout the Henderson area get disability benefits. We’re located right here in your community. You can count on us as your guides and partners through every step in the process. Our attorneys will work hard to get you the benefits you deserve.

Step 1: Applying For Benefits

You can apply for disability benefits online through the government website. You will need to include documentation such as:

• Your identifying details
• Your marital status and any children
• Your military service, if applicable
• Your work history
• Your education and job training
• Your medical history and disabling conditions
• Your sources of income
• Your bank information

You will need to include detailed medical records regarding your disability and how it impacts you.

The Social Security Administration provides a helpful checklist of what to include in your application.

Step 2: Waiting For A Decision

Once you submit your application, now comes the hard part – waiting. Generally, it takes three to six months to receive a decision. You can also check the status of your application online or by phone.

Step 3: Dealing With Denials

If your initial application gets approved, great! For many people, however, their initial application results in a denial or request for more information.

You have the right to appeal a denial. The appeals process involves the following steps:

• Submitting a request for reconsideration: This will trigger a review by someone who wasn’t involved in the initial denial.
• Requesting a hearing with an administrative law judge: If your request for reconsideration was denied, you can make your case at a hearing. This is an important opportunity to turn your case around.
• Requesting review by the Social Security Appeals Council: This is another level of review within the Social Security Administration.
• Filing an appeal in federal district court: Few cases reach this level, and it’s difficult to get a denial overturned in court.

It’s important to note that there are strict deadlines at each level of appeal. If your application was denied, now is the time to get a lawyer.

Get More Guidance

We can help you with the Social Security Disability process, including advising you of whether you qualify for benefits and helping you overcome any denials. Learn more by contacting our lawyers online or by phone at 270-458-3126 for a free consultation. We handle SSD cases in Kentucky and Indiana.