An unexpected injury or illness can leave you unsure of where to turn or how to proceed with your life. Unfortunately, many people find themselves suddenly unable to maintain employment due to their health. In these situations, an experienced attorney at Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, and Bhaya can help.
If a medical condition or injury has rendered you unable to work, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits might be available to you. An Elsmere SSDI lawyer can help you with your application and discuss the requirements for securing the resources you need.
Eligibility for SSDI
Not everyone is eligible to receive benefits through SSDI. To qualify, a person must have worked long enough to pay a minimum amount into Social Security taxes. The number of work credits a person must earn to be eligible for SSDI will vary depending on their age. Typically, older individuals need a longer work history in order to qualify.
Work requirements are not the only condition that must be met. SSDI benefits are only available to individuals with a qualifying disability, and minor, short-term injuries will not qualify for a viable claim. Instead, the condition must either persist for at least one year or be likely to result in death.
What Disabilities are Eligible for Social Security Benefits in Elsmere?
All qualifying disabilities are listed in a document referred to as the “Blue Book.” However, it is not enough for the condition an applicant claims to be present in the book. An applicant must also provide medical evidence that they are living with the condition.
The Blue Book outlines the medical evidence needed to prove each individual condition. Frequently, the Social Security Administration will require an applicant to see an approved doctor for an evaluation. During this evaluation, the doctor will look for the signs of the condition listed in the Blue Book.
Thus, having a proper diagnosis from a doctor is vital to the process. Yet, even with a diagnosis, a claim can be denied if an applicant does not follow every requirement and provide all necessary information. A local SSDI lawyer can help navigate any eligibility issues that arise and increase a person’s chance of a successful claim.
Waiting Period for SSDI Benefits
Even if a person qualifies for SSDI benefits, these benefits will not be immediately available. There is a waiting period of five months that begins with the onset of the disabling condition. The process routinely takes longer given that there the Social Security Administration typically sees a steady backlog of cases.
However, there is a vital exception known as the Compassionate Allowances program. The Compassionate Allowances Program (CAL) can expedite the review process for individuals facing severe or fatal conditions. By speeding up the review, applicants could receive benefits much faster than under normal circumstances. An SSDI lawyer at our Elsmere office could assist with the process of pursuing a claim under the CAL program for those who qualify.
Talk to an Elsmere SSDI Attorney Right Away
Before you pursue a claim for SSDI benefits, let an attorney at Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, and Bhaya review your case and advise you on the best course of action. An Elsmere SSDI lawyer can evaluate your eligibility and help you properly complete any application requirements. To get started and pursue the benefits you need, call us today and set up a confidential consultation.
