If you live in New York and are unable to work due to an illness or injury, you may be eligible to apply for disability benefits. The process is easy, all you need to do is follow these guidelines.
Eligibility
To be eligible for disability benefits in New York, you must have been disabled for at least one year. You cannot start the application process before this time.
Approval rate
Typically, only about 30% of the applications for disability get approved on the first submission. So, you should not be discouraged if you need to file at least one appeal. But, to have the best chance of having your application approved, it is a good idea to consult the help of a disability lawyer.
Beginning the process
The first step in filing a disability claim requires communication with your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office. Filing can be done online, over the telephone, or in person. Of the three choices, the best option is to go the SSA office in person so you can speak with a claims representative (CR). The CR will take your preliminary information and then transfers the claim to the disability examiner at the State Disability Agency.
The interview
You will need to have an interview to determine your eligibility status. During the interview you will be asked questions regarding your work status as well as any income you have coming in. You will also be asked questions about any other countable assets you have. If your answers to not fall within the allowable parameters, your claim will be denied without your needing to provide any medical information.
Medical and vocational qualifications
To make a determination on a disability case, the SSA will take medical and vocational information into account. You will need to provide the SSA with information regarding your medical condition and work environment and activities. The SSA will take into consideration the limitations you have experienced due to your injury or illness and how it affects your ability to perform your job. The disability examiner will use a five-step evaluation process to compare the limitations to the physical and mental demands of the job and then make a final decision. If it is determined that you cannot return to your past work environment, or perform other work for which you are qualified through your skills and education, you may be awarded disability benefits.
Receiving disability benefits can be a great help when you cannot otherwise bring income into your household. If you or someone you love may qualify for disability benefits in New York, Contact Law Offices of Daniel Berger today. Our staff can help you get the benefits you deserve.