Being injured or disabled can significantly alter your quality of life, as securing a steady income can be near impossible. When you are out of work, without a paycheck, and are not able to pay for daily needs like groceries, rent, and medical bills, applying for Social Security Disability can provide you with much-needed income. Successfully applying for Social Security Disability can be extremely difficult, as 65% of applications are denied. For this reason, it is very important to consider hiring a Social Security Disability attorney. If you have been injured or disabled and are in need of assistance, review the following information about how to apply for and receive disability benefits.

What is Covered by Social Security Disability

There are a wide range of disabilities and illnesses that qualify an individual for Social Security Disability (“SSDI”) benefits, including diseases, mental disabilities, and physical impairments such as the loss of a limb. If an individual has been out of work or expects to be out of work for at least one year due to the disability, then it is possible to receive SSDI. Both children and adults are eligible for benefits. If you or a loved one is disabled, applying for SSDI can be the solution for maintaining an income while unable to work.

How to Apply

In order to apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you must first fill out an application with the Social Security Administration. The application process is primarily broken down into two phases: the Request for Reconsideration, and the appeals process. It is most likely that your application will be denied during the initial phase, as over 80% of applications in Tennessee are rejected at first. Waiting through the appeals process can be costly and time-consuming, as it can take over one year to have your appeal heard before a judge. Waiting over one year for a judge to rule on an application can be impractical without any additional income source to sustain living expenses throughout the appeals process. Despite Social Security Disability being a necessary resource for many disabled individuals, the application process makes it extremely difficult to actually receive any benefits.

Making Your Application Successful

In order to have a higher chance of success with the initial application and receive benefits as soon as possible, it is best to contact a Social Security Disability attorney to assist with the application. A Social Security Disability attorney will be able to review your application before it is submitted to ensure all information is correct and stated in a way that will favorably highlight your application. If your initial application has already been denied, contacting an attorney as soon as possible is best to assist with the appeals process. Statistically speaking, your chances of being awarded SSDI are significantly higher if you have an attorney representing you. There is no additional financial burden to hiring an attorney, as disability attorneys only receive compensation once you are awarded your disability benefits.

If you are injured, disabled, or otherwise out of work because of an impairment, contact the Slaughter Law Firm today to see how we can help you win your case.