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Answers to 10 Social Security Frequently Asked Questions

Here are Some Answers to Common Questions! Get Answers to All your Questions in a Free Personal Consultation.

If you are computer savvy, you can file an application on line. Before you go to the Social Security site, please read all of the following. Then, if you still want to try online, the site is www.socialsecurity.gov. Good luck!

Be cautious about your online business with Social Security. Social Security pushes online applications and appeals as quick and easy. Be careful! Actually many people find the forms difficult and confusing. They often report giving up in frustration.

Claimants also report the presence of many misleading websites. These websites appear to be helpful but are actually attempts to offer their services. You may or may not be ready to accept! Once committed to an online representative it is difficult to change your mind!

Many people are still more comfortable doing things the old fashion way!

The safest way is to call your local Social Security office or toll free at 1-800-772-1213. Explain that you want to file an claim application. You do not want to apply on line!

There is just too much at stake to be unsure!

An appointment will be made for a telephone application or an appointment at the local office. The necessary forms will be forwarded to you. Fill out the forms as best you can. Call your local Social Security office if you need help more help.

Personal Information

You should have your Social Security number and location of your birth. Also, the name, birth date or age of your current spouse plus her Social Security number is needed. The names and birthdates of your minor children are required. Information about any former spouse(s) should be available.

Medical Information

You need the names, addresses, and dates of treatment for all medical conditions.  The names of the medicines you take and the medical tests you have undergone.

Employment Information

Your employment for the current year and the year before along with how much money you made. Social Security inquires about past jobs for the last 15 years. As well as, some income received such as workers compensation or other similar benefits.

Social Security pays disability benefits through two programs. One is the Social Security disability insurance program. The other is the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. To be insured, you must have worked 20 of the last 40 quarters.  There are other rules to accommodate the age of the younger worker.

Individuals not insured for the disability insurance program may  qualify for a different program.There are also certain income and resource requirements. This is the SSI or Supplemental Security Income program.

The disability requirements are the same for both programs. Other programs may be available for disabled widows/widowers and children.

Several factors determine how long it takes to process the application.
These include the complexity of the issues and availability of medical evidence. Generally as a best estimate of average time to get a decision is 60 to 90 days.

The Disability Determination Services a State agency is responsible for developing medical evidence. DDS makes the initial determination on whether a claimant is disabled or blind under the law. Determinations at the hearing level are by an Administrative Law Judge.

Social Security pays benefits to people who can’t work because of a medical condition. The condition must be expected to last at least one year or result in death.

Social Security tells you about their decision in a letter. Here’s how to request your appeal! When you apply for Social Security there truly are second chances. If you are computer savvy you can file an appeal on line.

Be cautious about your online business with Social Security business.

Social Security pushes online applications and appeals as quick and easy. Be careful! Actually many people find the forms difficult and confusing. They often report giving up in frustration.

Claimants also report the presence of many misleading websites. These websites appear to be helpful but are actually attempts to offer their services.  You may or may not be ready to accept! Once committed to an online representative it is difficult to change your mind!
Many people are still more comfortable doing things the old fashion way!
The safest way is to call your local Social Security office or toll free at 1-800-772-1213 . Find local office number...Explain that you want to file an appeal. You do not want to file on line!

There is just too much at stake to be unsure! An appointment will be made for a telephone application or an appointment at the local office to apply for Social Security. The necessary forms will be forwarded to you. Fill out the forms as best you can. Call your local Social Security office if you need more help.

There are no provisions for partial or short term disability programs

Social Security Disability Insurance benefits can be paid up to 12 months before the application date. A 5 month waiting period must also be considered.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are payable from the date of the current application.

Claimants may appoint attorney or non-attorney representative to help them with their claim. Claimants should choose someone who is experienced and knowledgeable. Ask friends and neighbors. Choose someone who you are comfortable with and who is available. The agreement between you and a representative must be approved by Social Security. Any fee must be approved. Many representatives charge no fee unless your claim is approved.

For more answers to your questions about applying for Social Security disability benefits call me, Hallman Woods.
For over 50 years, I have been representing people with claims for injuries and disabilities.   I only represent clients with Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income claims. I will help you apply for Social Security.

For more information about applying for Social Security  benefits, call me at (337) 364-4556. Or, send an email using the online contact form. Tell me about your case. Initial case evaluations are free. There is no fee unless you win your case.

If your current application was denied, it is important that you come in for a free review as soon as possible. There are crucial deadlines for an appeal.