Supporting Yourself After Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

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. Do not make any unnecessary purchases, especially large ones. Even if you can pay for those things now, you need to have a financial cushion should your claim take a year or two. Try to put savings away for the sole purpose of supporting you through the long wait that may happen with your social security disability application. Mandatory expenditures can sometimes be adjusted to allow flexibility during the waiting period. Some gas and electric companies have aid programs for those with limited income to help pay for winter heating bills. Restructuring a mortgage to allow you to access equity or simply lower your monthly payments can be considered. Additionally, many individuals find that they can rely on friends and family for short term loans or other support. Look into aid programs to help with doctor bills and medication. It is important that you do not stop your medical care. Many charities offer assistance to pay for medications. Look into state health assistance programs. 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. Filing for food stamps and housing assistance may be beneficial for you, if the application process takes longer than expected. 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: The three methods for filing for social security disability benefits are in person, via the telephone or via the internet. Most people believe handling it in person is the most advantageous. Meeting with your claims representative will give you one on one communication. 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. To request an initial appointment in person, call Social Security and tell them you would like to apply for social security disability insurance in person. You will then receive a confirmation of the scheduled appointment via mail.

Q: When should you expect notification of a decision on a social security disability case?

A: Decisions on some cases are reached within a few months, while others are not reached for years. The average time for a complete application to go through the initial review stage is 3 months.

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