Frequently Asked Questions: Application for Social Security Disability

There are basic steps that you should consider when applying for Social Security disability. You must fill out an application form, organize your medical records, and have a medical condition that meets Social Security's definition of disability.

Applying for disability benefits is very complicated; your case may even be denied. You need legal representation from professionals like those at Fuentes & Fuentes. We have handled many cases with satisfactory results, and we can take care of your case as soon as possible.

Our clients have many questions about applying for Social Security disability, and through this questionnaire we want to answer the most frequently asked questions:

How does Social Security define disability?

Under the Social Security Law, disability has been defined as the inability to perform paid work activities. The reason must be due to a medically proven physical or mental impairment. Such impediment must last for a period of not less than 12 months or cause death.

A person who is considered disabled by Social Security must have a serious condition that makes it difficult for him or her to do his or her job or any other job based on age, education, experience, and skill. Therefore, if your doctor tells you that you can recover from your medical condition within six months, Social Security will probably not approve your disability case.

For more information, see here: What is disability for Social Security.

How long does it take the Social Security to pay for disability?

Commonly, Social Security pays monthly to people who cannot work as a result of a disability. Generally, the waiting period is 5 months, so the first benefit payment will be made in the sixth month, counting the date on which your disability has been determined.

However, there is a possibility of receiving Social Security disability payment for the 12 months prior to submitting your application. This can happen by determining that you had a disability during that time and meet the requirements.

How much work do you need to apply for disability benefits?

To be approved for disability benefits, you must meet the Social Security definition of disability. Also, it is important that you have worked for a sufficient period to qualify for these benefits.

The Social Security benefits planner is guided by employment credits. These are based on a total annual salary or income you have received as a self-employed person. You can earn 4 credits per year, although the amount needed to earn work credits may change each year.

For more information, see here: How are credits generated.

How do you apply for Social Security disability?

When applying for disability benefits, there are several means of communication, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Generally, most Social Security procedures can be done online. If you are unable to use internet services, you have the option of submitting your application at a local Social Security office.

You can also apply for disability benefits over the phone. Social Security has an office locator so you can locate the nearest local office. The call is free and they can assist you according to the established schedule.

For more information, see here: What you need to know before applying.

How much money can I receive for disability?

Many people wonder how the Social Security Administration calculates disability payment. It is important to note that each case will be different, since they take into account the number of credits for your work and other mandatory requirements.

After Social Security determines your disability, they will review your original application to determine the payment amount. The payment is not related to your disability or the amount of your income. Also, other details are taken into account to determine how much money you will receive for your disability.

For more information, see here: How much does Social Security pay for disability.

Do I have to spend my savings to receive disability benefits?

You should not spend your savings to apply for Social Security disability benefits. If you are currently disabled and have worked for at least 5 years in the last 10 years, you can apply for disability benefits.

To qualify for disability benefits, there are limits on the amount of money you receive for your work activity. However, there will be no restrictions on your assets. That is why you can have a savings account with the amount of money you have been able to save.

If I am absent from work due to disability, can I apply for Social Security benefits?

Yes. It is possible to apply for Social Security disability benefits if you are on sick leave from your workplace. The benefits provided by your company will not be considered income from work.

If you think you will be away from work for a long time, you should apply for disability benefits as soon as possible. It is important to note that the review process for disability claims can take a long time. Therefore, for speedy processing, we recommend that you submit the application as soon as your disability is determined.

What are the diseases that qualify as disability?

This is a question without a definitive answer, since Social Security is the one who must analyze physical and mental health disorders. In this way it can be determined if a person is eligible to receive disability benefits.

Each case is evaluated individually, based on the Social Security definition of disability. For more details on illnesses that count as disability, you can consult with a Social Security attorney.

For more information, see here: List of conditions

After I become disabled, do I have to wait a certain period to apply for Social Security disability benefits?

So far, the Social Security Administration has not specified that you must wait a certain period of time to apply for disability benefits. Thus, our office recommends that you apply to this program as soon as possible. This is because it can take a long time for the Social Security Administration to evaluate your case.

For approval of your case, if you need help or want to ask a question about your claim, you can contact Fuentes & Fuentes. At our law firm we have lawyers with extensive experience when dealing with Social Security cases.