Despite the high number of people living with permanent disabilities, Social Security benefits are not easy to come by. More applications are rejected than accepted, and many of those who struggle to get accepted have severe disabilities and can do no work at all. To be approved for benefits, many applicants must endure a long and difficult series of appeals and rejections.
When you’ve become unable to work because of a permanent disability, you should consider applying for Social Security benefits. Because the stakes are high and the odds are often not in your favor, it’s worth taking a look at what you might be up against.
At some point in the process, you may experience the following problems with your Social Security application.
- Difficulties gathering information. To complete the application, you’ll have to provide a thorough account of your employment history, medical records, and anything else that may help determine your level of disability. Getting all of this together can take time.
- Difficulties caused by your disability. Depending on your condition, you may need help with the application itself. Or, you may have trouble making appointments or getting around on your own. This can be an obstacle for many applicants. Memory problems, difficulties with mobility, and other common disabilities can make the application process difficult.
- Not understanding the appeals process. Because there are so many steps to appealing a rejection, you may not understand what’s required of you at each step, or which one you’re currently in. This can make the process longer.
- Arguing your case successfully. To be approved for disability benefits, you’ll have to persuade the Social Security Administration, or a judge, that you are completely disabled and entitled to benefits. If you’re struggling to work or complete your daily routines, these may seem like an insurmountable task.
Getting approved for Social Security benefits can take a very long time, but an experienced legal counselor can help the process go much more smoothly, and the sooner you reach out, the better your chances. Contact our offices today for a free consultation!