If you are unable to work, you understand how much this can impact your financial health. Whether you have been unable to work due to illness or you can no longer meet the demands of your job because of a physical limitation you have, this is much more than just an inconvenience for your West Virginia family. You may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.
Fortunately, you could be eligible for benefits through Social Security. This could be a lifeline for your family, providing you with benefits and financial support since a disability prevents you from earning a gainful income. However, the application process is complicated, and you may want to first start by learning more about the eligibility requirements and what they may mean for your situation.
Who can get benefits?
The Social Security Administration holds a strict definition of disability. Not everyone who has a serious illness or debilitating physical condition will be able to get this type of financial support. In fact, it may surprise you learn that many people who have valid disabilities do not get approval on their first application attempt. According to the SSA, a disability is not a short-term illness or physical injury from which you will recover in a short amount of time.
In order to qualify for disability benefits, you must have a condition that will prevent you from working for a period of at least 12 months. Your disabling condition must prevent from continuing with your current job or finding other types of employment. Disabilities can include physical issues, serious illnesses, grave injuries, mental conditions, systematic conditions and more.
Your application
The application process for disability benefits can be complex. You will have to include evidence of your condition and proof of how it affects your ability to work. Some of the things required for your disability benefits application include medical records, letters from your employer, notes from doctors, test results, information about mediation you take and more.
Many initial applications come back denied, and it is in your interests to work diligently to avoid problems and setbacks whenever possible. One of the ways you can do this is by seeking the guidance of an experienced disability benefits attorney who can provide support every step of the way. This includes assistance with the initial application, gathering the right documentation and dealing with denied or delayed claims.
