Medical conditions causing disability can be incredibly stressful, and frustrating to deal to deal with. Worries about paying for basic living needs further complicate an incredibly difficult situation. The Social Security Administration offers programs designed to financially aid people who are disabled and no longer able to work. The SSD application process in Atlantic County can be challenging, but is much easier to negotiate with legal aid.
What is SSD?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI, SSD) is a federal program managed by the Social Security Administration. This program is designed to benefit individuals who have worked for years and have contributed tax dollars to the Social Security system. Eligibility for SSDI benefits is dependent on an individual who has a qualifying physical condition and who also has contributed a certain amount to the social security system. Individuals can qualify for SSD regardless of their personal assets or family’s income.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
There are numerous health conditions that may cause disability. Any condition that is severe, long-term and causing physical disability may qualify for SSD benefits. Some common conditions that may qualify for SSD include cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, heart disease and musculoskeletal problems. In order for a condition to qualify for disability, it must be a long-term, chronic illness. The Social Security office will contact health care providers to obtain medical records to confirm the condition.
Applying for SSD
The first step in applying for disability benefits is to visit the local Social Security office. Here you will meet with a claims specialist that will help you file your claim. Once your claim has been submitted, it will be forwarded to a claim examiner who will then request medical documentation supporting your condition and the cause of disability. Obtaining medical records is typically the lengthiest part of the process. After review of the medical records, the claim examiner will discuss the claim and medical condition with a health care professional who makes the determination about whether the condition meets the qualifications for disability.
Legal Aid
The application process for SSD can be challenging. Legal representation can facilitate the entire process as well as can speed up the determination. If you’re applying for SSD in Atlantic County, contact the Law Office of Sheryl Gandel Mazur for expert legal counsel.
