Q. What is the definition that
Social Security uses for disability?
A. According to the Social Security Act, "disability" is the
"inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by
reason of any medically determinable physical or mental
impairment which can be expected to result in death or has
lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not
less than 12 months."
Q. What documents do I need to have to apply for Social
Security disability?
A. You may need any of the following:
- Social Security card (or a
record of your number);
- Your birth certificate or
proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if you were
not born in the U.S.;
- Your military discharge papers
if you had military service; and
- W-2 form from last year, or
your last year's tax return if you're self-employed.
SPECIAL NOTE: If you are missing
a document, don't delay signing up for Social Security
disability. You will need to provide that document later, but
the application date is important. See our
resource page for Social Security links.
Q. I am definitely disabled, so I should have no problem with
having my application for benefits approved, right?
A. Unfortunately, almost 60 % of original applications for
Social Security Disability benefits are denied. Many of these
are approved during the appeals process.
Q. Do I have to go into the Social Security office to apply
for disability payments? It is so difficult for me to get
transportation.
A. As of January 28, 2002 we have a new answer for you. It is
now possible to file for Social Security Disability Benefits
online to start your application.
Apply for benefits.
Q. If I fill out my application online, can I delete it if I
need to?
A. The application is left on Social Security records for
six-months. They are required to protect the date that you first
indicated you wanted to apply for Social Security Benefits.
Q. I have heard about a list
of approved disabilities for benefits. How do I know if my
disability is on this list?
A. Actually, there are two lists within the social security
system that allows a claimant to automatically qualify for
benefits: one for adult disabling conditions and one
for children that lists applicable impairments. Your
disability does not need to be on this list. You only need to
prove that your disability is the equivalent of a condition that
has already been approved for benefits.
Q. English is not my first language. What if I need an
interpreter for these medical terms?
A. Interpreter services are provided free of charge by the
Social Security Administration. The service is provided upon
request of a claimant or beneficiary. You may also bring your
own interpreter to the interview. Your interpreter must be at
least 18 years old; be able to read, write and demonstrate
fluency in English; and be able to read, write and demonstrate
fluency in the language that you speak.
Please feel free to e-mail additional questions to:
info@kantrovitzlaw.com
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