When my husband I decided to start a business, we didn't think about the legal aspects of doing so. We didn't realize that purchasing business insurance, getting building permits and making investments all required some type of legal advice. But after speaking to a close friend, who also happens to own a small business, we contacted a business attorney. Now, we have the legal smarts to make the best decisions for our business, as well as the legal representation in case something happens to our company. I hope that you find my blog helpful and informative for your own business. It's a great resource for finding the legal advice, resources and guidance you need to get your company up and running.
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Debunking the Myths about Social Security Disability
Ronnie Mills
It is often hard to deal with disabilities that make you or someone you know incapable of daily tasks. Fortunately, Social Security's disability program helps ease the burden by providing disability benefits for those who qualify. In order to know if you or a family member qualifies for disability pay, there are certain myths you need to be aware of.
Myth 1: If a doctor says you are disabled, you are guaranteed to qualify.
Just because a doctor tells you are disabled does not mean you will automatically qualify for disability payments. The Social Security Administration will review your case to determine if you are eligible to receive benefits. In order to qualify, a person must have a physical or mental condition that impairs their ability to participate in substantial gainful activity, or SGA.
Impairing conditions can either be physical or mental. Furthermore, the condition must meet one of the following two standards:
- The condition is expected to last continuously for at least a year
- The condition is expected to eventually lead to the death of the individual
It is important to note that children can also qualify for disability benefits, yet the definition of disability for anyone who is under the age of 18 may differ from what is set forth for an adult. A child is considered disabled if he or she has a mental or physical impairment that severely limits their functionality. The child must also meet one of the two standards listed above. A child who is blind may also qualify for SSI disability benefits.
Make sure if a doctor tells you that you or your child is disabled that you ask for very detailed documentation to provide to your local Social Security office. If you are having trouble, have a lawyer assist you in submitting your paperwork and ensuring that you receive the benefits for which you are entitled.
Myth 2: It is hard to qualify for disability if you suffer from depression.
Approximately 14.8 million adults in the United States suffer from major depressive illnesses. However, that does not mean that all of those individuals are considered disabled. But if the depressive disorder lasts for a year and prevents normal functionality, such as going to work or going to school, you may very well qualify for disability benefits.
Depression can have a disabling impact on a person that makes it harder for them to deal with certain tasks. For example, a person with depression may find it difficult or even impossible to socialize, which can prevent the person from finding gainful employment. A child may find that depression prevents them from completing their academic requirements successfully.
Both children and adults can qualify for disability benefits if they have suffered from a major depressive order for more than a year. Keep in mind that in order to qualify, the adult or child suffering will need to be diagnosed with severe depression. Mild to moderate depression will not qualify. When it comes to children, the child must have severe depression and come from a low-income family in order to qualify for disability benefits. Furthermore, the child must meet the qualifications for a severe depressive order.
Myth 3: If you are turned down, then it is not worth reapplying.
There are various reasons why a person may be denied SSI benefits despite having a qualifying condition. The reasons for denial can range from a lack of detailed information to poorly filled out paperwork and more. If you feel that your denial lacks legitimacy, hire a Social Security lawyer to assist you. The lawyer can look over your information to determine if there is anything missing that might help you gain the benefits you need.
Although it may feel frustrating to receive a denial on your application, do not give up. Reapplying is always an option and one that is highly recommended if you believe your condition qualifies you to receive benefits. A lawyer can present your case to the Social Security Administration in order to ensure that you receive your benefits in a timely fashion. Contact a lawyer like Todd East Attorney at Law for further help.
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