Social Security Benefits
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by: albert.tobega
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Because Social Security regulations are so complex, determining which social security benefits you qualify to receive can be a challenge. To smooth the process, here are answers to some of disability applicants most common questions.
You will not be able to get partial disability benefits through SSA. Disability social security benefits are available only to people who are completely disabled and have been so (or are expected to be so) for at least a year. If you need partial disability, you will have to apply through a state or local disability program. Being denied disability benefits from SSA will not automatically disqualify you from receiving benefits through state and local programs.
However, if you are disabled but able to work for short periods or at a low level, you may be able to continue working while receiving social security benefits. You total income will be taken into account by the state agency that handles your social security case. If you can still work but your maximum possible income falls below a certain amount, you can still collect disability benefits. Note that your highest POTENTIAL income, not your CURRENT income, is the deciding factor: You will not be eligible for social security benefits if there is another occupation that you have the training and physical ability to perform, and you would be able to earn above the minimum income level by switching to it. You will not be pushed beyond your limits and asked to do work you are not capable of doing. The state agency takes into account applicants health, age, experience, and education when evaluating which jobs they are suited to do. If you need help moving to a better job that would enable you to support yourself, assistance is available.
Many applicants are confused and annoyed by their social security agents request to continue seeing doctors even after they have doctors statements that there is no available medical treatment for the applicants condition. If you are in this position, there is an explanation! First, your regular doctors may not be able to provide all of the information the state agency needs to evaluate your case. The agency will arrange for you to see a doctor who has the specialized experience or equipment necessary to complete the examination. The examination is part of your case evaluation, not a part of your treatment plan.
Second, disability is not always permanent, and even untreatable conditions can improve. It is a good idea to have regular examinations to track the progress of your condition. Your health may improve enough that you can return to work, even without medical treatment.
And third, medicine brings new miracles every year. Why miss out on a cure because you stopped going to the doctor out of resignation? It is a small nuisance compared to the huge lifestyle benefits you could reap. Other articles Veterans disability lawyer . Social security lawyer . Attorneys for social security disability .
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