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This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.
Disability benefits are a lifeline for many. With tens of millions of Americans having at least one disability, Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a dynamic service that can provide you with the necessary financial help that you need. So, are you wondering if you can increase the SSDI check amount? That’s what we’re going to discuss in this article.
We will tell you about the many factors that affect the SSDI amount and how to get the maximum disability benefits. More often than not, it’s fairly straightforward and all you need to do is follow a few simple pointers.
Note that the process can be made more reliable and faster with the help of an attorney. A social security lawyer Los Angeles, for example, can help you assess your case objectively and help you file a claim for the maximum benefit while also following up with the relevant authorities. If you’re filing yourself, then you need to make sure that all the paperwork is in order and that all details are presented accurately and correctly.
Be Detailed
Attention to detail is the most important thing when it comes to applying for disability benefits. The process itself can be a little complex and overwhelming, but you should always strive to provide 100% accurate and comprehensive information. This increases your chances of receiving maximum benefits considerably.
Keep these things in mind:
- Gather all relevant medical records and test results. You should also include any detailed notes from your healthcare providers outlining your condition and its severity. We also recommend getting in touch with a medical professional who can comment on the impact of your disability on your life. The more thorough your medical documentation is, the stronger your case will be.
- Medical records aren’t the only piece of information that you need to furnish. You should also provide a comprehensive history of your work experience. All of this is relevant such as job titles and responsibilities. Clearly explain how your medical condition has hindered your ability to perform your job tasks effectively.
- If there are any limitations imposed by your disability, then they should be clearly mentioned as well. It’s very important to describe how your condition exactly affects your mobility or cognitive ability. In a lot of cases, disabilities and conditions also hamper you from performing basic tasks like lifting, standing, walking, or concentrating for longer periods of time. Illustrate the full extent of your disability’s impact by shedding light on everything that you’re now limited in.
- Provide personal statements that elaborate on your struggles, daily challenges, and the emotional toll of living with your disability. Sharing real-life examples can help disability evaluators understand the practical implications of your condition on your quality of life.
Meeting the Eligibility
The SSA sets specific eligibility criteria. You must meet these criteria and understand all the requirements. If you don’t qualify for the benefits then you’re not going to get them, it’s as simple as that.
Disability benefits are typically granted to individuals with severe medical conditions that significantly impede their ability to work. Your medical condition must meet the SSA’s definition of a disability, which means it must prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months. Your condition should be backed by substantial medical evidence, including doctor’s reports, test results, and treatment history.
SSDI also requires applicants to have earned a certain number of work credits to qualify. These credits are earned based on your work history and annual earnings. The exact number of credits required may vary depending on your age and the specific disability program you’re applying for.
The disability must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. In contrast, short-term disabilities or temporary impairments are generally not eligible for disability benefits.
Also, keep in mind that individuals applying for disability in their 50s or 60s have different eligibility criteria compared to younger applicants.
The SSA maintains a list of medical impairments, known as the “Blue Book,” that outlines the specific criteria necessary to qualify for disability benefits based on various conditions. If your medical condition matches one of the listings in the Blue Book, you may be considered eligible for benefits more easily.
A social security retirement benefits attorney should be better able to help in case you have some complications that make you unable to fully meet the eligibility criteria. Sometimes, there are ways to supplement your claim with additional paperwork or relevant documents and meet the eligibility criteria while initially, it looks like you can’t.
SSD Lawyers
Lawyers specializing in SSD have an in-depth understanding of disability laws and regulations. This includes all about eligibility criteria, the application process, and the deadline before which you must file.
Consult with an SSD lawyer to better understand the benefits that you’re eligible for.
You can get in touch with a Los Angeles disability appeal attorney to get a better resolution 9/10 times.
Note that SSDI is different from Employee Retirement Income Security Act or ERISA. If you have a problem with benefit calculation, we suggest you talk to a specialized Los Angeles ERISA lawyer as they have the necessary expertise to help you.
Wrapping Up
Remember that the process of obtaining disability benefits can be complex, and it’s important to consult official sources like the Social Security Administration (SSA) for accurate and up-to-date information.
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