To be eligible for disability benefits, you must be suffering from a disabling condition that is expected to last for at least 12 months. Some mistakenly believe that they can’t or shouldn’t apply until they have been actually disabled for one year.  Others cling to false hope of a quicker recovery  than may be realistic.  Still, others may not think of themselves as “disabled”  or may feel that because they aren’t the family “breadwinner” that they shouldn’t seek these benefits.  Regardless of the reason, delaying the application process can be costly.

If you have an injury, disease or condition that will result in your inability to work for a year or more, you should consider your eligibility for Social Security Disability. An application can be made online at www.ssa.gov, or at your nearest Social Security District Office which you can find here: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp    You can also seek the assistance of an attorney, even this early in the process. 

3 Reasons to Apply for Disability Benefits as Soon as You’re Eligible 

1. It Can Be a Long Process.

    The Social Security Administration processes applications for disability benefits as quickly as possible, but the sheer volume of claims among other factors results in a process that can take a year or more from start to finish. While there are individuals who are approved for benefits upon the initial application, many many claimants  are denied on both the initial application and at the initial appeal level called Reconsideration.  Denial at both of these levels leaves the option of asking for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.  There can be a substantial waiting period for such a hearing.  The quicker you apply for benefits=the quicker you have a chance of being approved= the quicker you can actually receive the benefits you deserve.

2. To Increase the Chances of Securing Favorable Medical Opinion Evidence. 

Medical records are important proof in disability claims.  But oftentimes the most important evidence in these cases comes in the form of a written opinion of a physician who is actively treating the claimant, regarding the claimant’s disabilities.  Unless one’s doctor is currently familiar with his or her patient, he or she will likely be hesitant to provide such an opinion.  It can be especially costly to make your application after you have been unable to see your doctor for a long period of time due to money or insurance issues.  You will be far better off pursuing the claim early, with written support from a supportive physician intimately familiar with your current condition.    

3. To Avoid Losing Work Credits Over Time

With limited exception for younger workers, you must have worked a certain amount in the immediate past ten years in order to qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits.  In 2019, for example, workers receive one “work credit” for each $1,360 of earnings, up to a maximum of four credits per year.  If you are disabled at age 31 or older, you typically need at least 20 credits in the 10 years immediately before you became disabled.  Some people make the mistake of waiting a number of years after they are unable to work and in the worst cases, no longer qualify because they waited too long.  

Know your rights concerning Social Security Disability and other government programs and don’t wait until its too late.  

If you want to apply for Social Security disability in Tennessee, turn to a compassionate attorney at Patton & Hyder PLLC for guidance. Based in Crossville, this firm provides a broad range of legal services for clients throughout Cumberland County. In addition to assisting injured and disabled parties with their benefits claims, the seasoned attorneys at this practice help with civil litigation, corporate structuring, criminal defense, wrongful death, family law disputes, traffic citations, real estate transactions, and personal injury claims. And with two offices in Crossville, they’re ready to get to work helping you. To view their locations, visit their website, then call (931) 787-1333 to schedule an initial consultation.