If you live in the state of New York and are unable to work due to a severe illness or injury, you may be eligible for disability benefits. If you believe you fall into this category, follow the guidelines below to begin the application process.
Determine Your Eligibility
To be eligible for disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that makes it impossible for you to do the work you did before your illness or injury. You must also have paid into Social Security through a previous employer and earned enough work credits. In most cases, you need 40 work credits, half of which were earned within the past 10 years, to receive this benefit.
Documentation
To complete your application, provide documentation of your situation along with your application forms through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Have the following documents on hand before you begin the application process:
– Social Security number
– Contact information for medical professionals, clinics and hospitals involved in your medical care
– List of medications you have taken or are taking as well as the prescribed doses
– List of workplaces and types of work completed
– Proof of birth
– All pertinent medical records
– Lab tests and results
– Most recent W-2 form or federal tax return
– If your family members qualify for benefits as dependents, the names, Social Security numbers, and birth certificates of all applicants
– To include your spouse on the application, proof of marriage. Also, the dates of any previous marriages.
Begin the Application Process
If you are eligible for benefits, begin your application either in person, online, or over the phone. Choose the way with which you are most comfortable. If you decide to apply in person, set up an appointment in advance with your local Social Security office. Fill out the application completely and accurately because inaccurate and missing information may cause a claim denial.
Sign the Authorization Form
Do not forget to sign the authorization form that allows the SSA to discuss your case with others. Without this authorization, the SSA cannot gain the necessary information that solidifies your case from your healthcare providers.
Wait
This part of the application may be the most difficult. After you submit your application, you must wait for a response from the SSA. The SSA contacts you via U.S. Postal Service mail when the agency makes a final determination about your case.
Prepare Your Appeal
The SSA denies most applications on the first submission. Do not be surprised if this is the result you get. If your application is denied, begin preparing your appeal immediately as you only have 60 days in which to do so. If you were fortunate enough to have your claim accepted, you start receiving your benefits shortly.
If you have questions regarding applying for disability benefits in New York or would like assistance compiling your application, contact the law office of Daniel Berger today. We can help you wade through this complicated process.