The financial toll of having a disability can be significant. When an individual is unable to work because of a mental or physical issue, it can make it difficult to make ends meet, pay bills and have money for additional expenses. A person in this position may find it necessary to apply for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration.
The SSA holds a strict definition of disability, and many initial claims come back denied. Even if you have a genuine medical concern and are truly unable to hold gainful employment, it can be quite difficult to get the financial support you need. It may help to first understand the SSA’s definition of disability and what it looks at when considering claims.
Are you eligible?
The SSA looks at various different factors to determine a person’s level of incapacitation. If there is reason to believe the applicant could hold some sort of gainful employment, he or she may not be eligible for disability. If you wish to secure these types of payments, the following criteria will determine your eligibility:
- You are unable to continue doing the work you were doing before the onset of your medical condition.
- Your medical condition keeps you from holding other types of employment in any capacity.
- Your disabling condition is expected to last for at least 12 months or ultimately result in your death.
To verify your claim, you will have to include certain types of documentation, such as medical records and information about your doctors. The SSA may also want you to include information about the job you used to do, medication you have to take and more. If there is not enough supporting evidence, your claim will likely come back denied.
What’s next?
If your claim comes back denied, it is not the end of the road for you. You have the right to seek a reconsideration of your claim and take other steps in the appeals process. While this is a frustrating setback, it is still possible for you to keep fighting for the financial support you need.
Whether you are completing your initial application or you are dealing with a denied claim, you do not have to face it alone. You may find it beneficial to work with an experienced New York disability attorney at every step of the claims process. To learn more about your options or whether you are eligible, you may want to start with a complete assessment of your case.