Supporting Yourself After Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits
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by: albert.tobega
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Q: If I cannot work, how am I supposed to support myself while applying for social security disability?
A: Waiting for a decision on a social security disability insurance claim can take months or years. Supporting yourself while you wait can be quite stressful. Knowing that the review process can take time, a first step is to plan ahead financially. Try to eliminate all spending that is not mandatory. Even if you can pay for those things now, you need to have a financial cushion should your claim take a year or two. Put any money you save by cutting discretionary spending aside to help you through the time it may take to reach a decision about your social security disability claim. Some claimants restructure their financial obligations to help them through. Some gas and electric companies have aid programs for those with limited income to help pay for winter heating bills. Refinancing a mortgage or other loan to free up funds can be an option. Additionally, many individuals find that they can rely on friends and family for short term loans or other support. If you can no longer pay your medical bills, seek assistance. It is important that you do not stop your medical care. Some churches and non profits have programs to help with prescription costs. Research any health benefits with the state for which you might qualify. You can also go to a free clinic program for certain things. Talk to your doctor about restructuring payment plans. Knowing that you are applying for disability, billing departments are more willing to work with you. Filing for public assistance programs can also be helpful. Some states offer assistance loans that you must pay back once you receive a decision on your social security disability claim. Section 8 housing aid or food stamp programs may be helpful if your wait is long. If you are in financial dire straights, you might consider talking to a social security attorney. It is possible that you qualify for dire need aid with the agency. Such assistance can help expedite your claim and offer monetary aid.
Q: Can you go to the Social Security office to submit your social security disability application?
A: You can apply for social security disability insurance online, over the phone or in person. Most people believe handling it in person is the most advantageous. A face to face appointment with the disability manager who will handle your case gives opportunities for real contact that applying online or via telephone will not. The meeting will be your first opportunity to provide background on your claim and medical condition, and the disability case manager will get to see how your condition currently affects your ability to function. This initial meeting sets the stage for the rest of process. Call the toll free number (800) 772.1213 for Social Security and ask for an appointment to submit your application for social security disability. Social Security will send you written notification of the appointment time and date.
Q: How long does a claim for social security disability benefits take?
A: The duration can range anywhere from months to years. A decision for a normal case that has all the required materials is made within 90 days or so.
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