Applying for disability benefits can seem intimidating and confusing at first. But, following the guidelines listed below will help you through the process and help to relieve any anxiety you feel about it.
Filling out the forms
When you apply for disability benefits, there are many forms you will need to fill out. One key to having your application approved is completing the forms thoroughly and accurately. Do not rush through this step, as even one mistake can delay the process for weeks.
Become informed
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses specific jargon and terminology for disability claims. Become familiar with the verbiage they use and try to adhere to their definitions. Often their terminology is quite different than the common definitions of the same words.
Prepare before you apply
A key step in having your application approved is preparing before you fill out your paperwork. Research your disability. When you know specific details about your condition, it will be easier to fill out your paperwork. The SSA looks for specific medical evidence when considering applications. Make sure you have checked with your doctors and other medical providers to make sure your claims are accurate.
The Disability Report
The Disability Report is the most important aspect of your application because it provides the most detailed information about your disability. The report should contain details about your condition and how it affects you. Anything you state on this form will be used by the SSA to determine your own assessment of your disability. You should gather all of your documentation before you fill out this form because your medical records must support every statement you make on it.
Questions the SSA will ask your doctors
The SSA will ask your doctors the following questions as part of the application process:
-Â Â Â What is your medical condition?
-Â Â Â When did the condition begin?
-Â Â Â How does the condition limit your activities?
-Â Â Â What have the medical tests shown?
-Â Â Â What treatments have been received?
The decision process
Once your application has been submitted, the SSA asks the following questions to determine your eligibility for benefits:
-Â Â Â Are you working? If so, do you earn less than $1,070 per month?
-Â Â Â Is your medical condition severe?
-   Is your medical condition on the “Listing of Impairments?â€
-Â Â Â Can you do the work you did before?
-Â Â Â Can you do any other type of work?
The best way to ensure your New Jersey disability application is completed correctly is to seek out the help of a qualified attorney. Contact a New Jersey SSI attorney today to have the best chance of having your disability application approved.
