Many people are unable to work because of a disabling medical condition. If you are unable to work because of an illness or disorder, you may wonder how to begin preparing your disability claim. In this article, we will take a look at some things you can do to make sure you are prepared.
Do a Little Research
You might start by looking into disability benefits that might be available to you. For example, you may be eligible for:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): monthly benefits for people who cannot work due to a disability.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): monthly benefit payments for people who meet certain criteria, which can include having a disability.
- California State Disability Benefits: short-term disability benefits offered to California residents who cannot work because of a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy.
- Private Insurance: disability insurance offered through your employer or that you pay for yourself.
However, after your research, you may find you have more questions than answers.
Ask Some Questions
Once you know there are programs that might help, you may have some of the following questions:
- What benefits are available?
- When will the benefits start?
- Am I eligible for these benefits?
- How much will the payments be?
The most important question may be: “Who can help me apply for benefits?” The answer could be a disability attorney or disability law firm.
Gather Information
Of course, you will have to complete paperwork when you apply for government benefits. Before you file your disability claim, start gathering some of the information you may need, including:
- contact information for your dependents;
- employment history;
- educational history; and
- personal identification.
Because you have to have a disabling medical condition to get disability benefits, medical records will be required. When applying for SSDI, you will be asked for any records you currently have but Social Security can get the rest of your records from your medical providers.
Your research, questions, and information gathering will all help with the last and most important step: hiring an experienced disability attorney.
You’ll Need Help Preparing Your Disability Claim
Talk to an attorney about your eligibility for disability benefits if you are thinking of filing a claim. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have more than 50 years’ legal experience, much of it involving Social Security Disability Insurance claims. They can help you with your application and any appeals that might be needed.
Call us at 714-385-8100 for a free consultation. Though our office is located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
