When Can You Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance?
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by: albert.tobega
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Q: How long can you expect to wait until you hear a decision about your social security disability claim?
A: There are no deadlines within which the Social Security Administration has to process an application for social security disability insurance. Some cases take years to receive a decision. Decisions on other cases can be made within months. The norm for a social security disability case being reviewed for the first time is about ninety days. Numerous things can lengthen the duration for a decision on your particular case.And there are things that you can do to increase the likelihood that your social security disability case does not hit snags that will slow down the process. A common cause for delay is medical documents that have yet to arrive. It is helpful to confirm that all requested medical documents have been sent and received. If a consultative exam is requested, make sure you do it. If you cannot be present at a particular exam, it is important that you reschedule. Incomplete or lack of current data about your condition will slow the review process and, possibly, eventually cause a denial of benefits. Always confirm that your case manager has updated information regarding your address and phone numbers. And respond to any requests regarding your case. The representative handling your social security disability application wants to reach a decision too, so be polite and helpful. Finally, be your own advocate and know where your case is in the review process by periodically contacting your claims representative about the status.
Q: Do you have to wait 5 months before you apply for social security disability benefits?
A: You should apply for social security disability benefits as soon as you become injured and know that your condition will prevent you from working for at least 12 months. There is no waiting period for applying. A decision on a case can vary from months to years, so it is advantageous to submit your application for benefits as soon as you can. There is a required waiting time of five months after the onset date of your injury before you can receive your first benefits check, but there is no waiting period for applying. Q: Can you work while your social security disability claim is pending?
A: You are allowed to be employed and receive social security disability benefits. The amount you earn, not the fact that you are working, is what will affect your entitlement to benefits. You cannot earn above the limit Social Security has established as substantial gainful activity. The SGA limit for 2008 was $940 per month before taxes.
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Find more information about social security disability, go to www.HillAndPonton.com.
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