If you are unable to work for more than a year due to a disability, you may be entitled to collect Social Security Disability Benefits in Rhode Island. Our experienced disability lawyers have been handling these cases for several years now and we only charge a fee if we win your case and you receive past due benefits. Call us toll free 24/7 at 1-800-992-6878 or contact us online for a free (no obligation) case evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions On How To Apply for
Social Security Disability Benefits:
Where Do You Start The Process Of Applying?
You need to start by getting an application. You can apply online at Social Security Administration, call 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone or contact your local Social Security Administration office. Click here to find addresses and phone numbers for SSA offices.
According to the Social Security Administration, you can use the online application process if you:
- Are age 18 or older;
- Are not currently receiving benefits on your own Social Security record;
- Are unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death: and
- Have not been denied disability benefits in the last 60 days. If your application was recently denied for medical reasons, the Internet Appeal is a starting point to request a review of the medical determination that was made.
How Will The SSA Handle Your Application?
After they receive your online application, they will:
- Provide you with confirmation of your application- either electronically or by mail.
- Review your application.
- Contact you if they need more information or documentation.
- Inform you if other family members may be able to receive benefits on your record, or if you may be able to receive benefits on another person’s record, such as your spouse or your parent.
- Process your application.
- Mail their decision to you.
What Does The Application Process Involve?
- When To Apply: You should apply as soon as your doctor believes your disability or illness will prevent you from working for more than one year.
- Initial Application: You will need medical records and reports to verify that you have a legitimate disability or impairment which qualifies you to receive benefits. You will also need to gather information about your education and work history in order to complete the application.
- Application Is Denied: You will receive a letter explaining why you were denied and how to appeal the decision. If denied, you have 60 days to appeal for a reconsideration.
- Reconsideration: It is not likely that the Social Security Administration will approve you at this level if you have not submitted any new documents to them. This stage is very similar to the Initial stage.
- Reconsideration Is Denied: If your reconsideration is denied, you will receive another letter stating that you can appeal that denial as well. After this denial, you will want to continue treating with your doctors and make sure that you send medical records to the SSA.
- Hearing: At this formal appeal, an independent hearing is conducted. You can have a lawyer with you and you can present witnesses if necessary. In most cases, the best chance of receiving benefits is by going before an Administrative Law Judge. Nearly half of the denials are reversed on appeal.
- Formal Appeal Denial: If your claim is denied again, you can still appeal to the Social Security National Appeals Council in Washington D.C.
Does Your Social Security Disability Claim Continue to Get Denied?
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What If Your Application Is Approved?
If your application is approved, you will begin to receive benefits. Your benefits will be sent on a monthly basis. Your benefits will increase each year at the same rate as cost of living adjustments.
However, benefits are not indefinite. Benefits can end if you reach the age of retirement or if your disability no longer impairs your working ability. The Social Security Administration will check in periodically to ensure that your disability or impairment continues to prevent you from working. If there is a change in your medical condition, you are obligated to report this information to the Social Security Administration.
Why Hire Us?
If you plan on applying or are already in the process of applying for benefits, you should consider hiring an experienced Rhode Island Social Security Disability lawyer. The process of applying can be confusing and overwhelming, our disability lawyers have experience handling the entire process, from the initial application all the way through to a formal appeal. You pay no fee unless we win your disability claim and you get past due benefits. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call our toll free number 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form on our site.