To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must have worked long enough in jobs covered by Social Security (usually 10 years). Then, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security's

In general, the SSA pays monthly benefits to people who are unable to work for a year or more, or who have a condition expected to end in death. The disability must be so severe the worker cannot work, considering age, education and experience.

Applying online for disability benefits offers several advantages:

• You can start your disability claim immediately. There is no need to wait for an appointment;
• You can apply from the convenience of your home, or on any computer; and
• You can avoid trips to a Social Security office, saving you time and money.

More Information

Disability Benefits

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be difficult. There are forms to complete, long lines, and many agents to talk to about your disability, medical forms, plus more. You can increase your chance of approval by filing with an advocate who is experienced in the process and techniques of filing with the SSA. Using an experienced representative will increase your chance of approval with maximum benefits by:

1. Keeping current with your claim - An advocate will map the application process and regularly check the status of your claim.
2. Making your claim undeniable - A representative will be sure your claim is accurate medical records that clearly document your disability and how it limits your ability to work.
3. Expedite you claim - A representative can assist with filing promptly so that your benefits are approved as soon as possible. If you wait to apply, you may lose a big part of your benefits.
4. You don't pay unless you are paid - Most SSDI advocates or attorneys get paid only if they can win your disability claim. This fee must be approved by the Social Security Administration and has limits.

• Non-sufficent Medical documentation
• Does not meet disabililty requirements
• Errors entering information
• Expired or late paperwork

78% of initial applications are denied by the SSA. What can you do to appeal the decision? Don't give up, you can still receive disability benefits through the appeals process. Step 1 - file a request for reconsideration. It is highly beneficial to involve an attorney at this stage in order to add new or ammend information which might be beneficial to the case. Having an experienced advocate can make a huge impact by organizing the facts, filling in missing information, and expediting your claim. Step 2 - get a disability hearing in front of an administrative judge. This stage may include medical and vocational experts. Step 3 - get a decision by the Appeals Council who will make sure the administrative judge followed the correct procedures in making the denial decision. If you’ve been denied Social Security Disability benefits during the initial application stage, you should seek out help from an attorney prior to filing an appeal. You only have 60 days from the date of receiving your denial from the SSA to appeal the decision so contacting a qualified Social Security Disability attorney as soon as possible is critical.

Seek legal help and begin the appeal process.

Hiring an attorney is more affordable than you may think! Social security disability attorneys only get paid up to 25% of the benefits you receive (not exceeding $6,000 ), and they get paid only if your benefits are approved.