Often people have excuses for putting off doing a task. This can be relatively harmless in certain areas of life, but not when it comes to prolonging applying for disability benefits.
Perhaps these 5 myths may be the exact same reasons that you are not applying.
By believing these myths, you could be missing out on thousands in disability benefits that you deserve. Let’s take a closer look at these 5 Social Security Disability myths:
MYTH 1: You Can’t Apply for Social Security Disability if You’ve Already Applied for Unemployment
During these difficult times, many have applied for unemployment benefits. However, while you are waiting to hear back from unemployment, you may be able to apply for disability benefits. It’s best to consult with an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer to discuss your options.
MYTH 2: You Need to Be Disabled for a Certain Amount of Time Before Applying
If you are disabled by an injury or illness that is expected to last for 12 months or more, or is considered terminal, you may qualify for Social Security Disability. Therefore, you do not need to wait for a specific amount of time to be disabled. You should apply as soon as possible.
MYTH 3: If You Don’t Have a Long Work History, You Can’t Apply
To apply for benefits, you must meet a number of work credits that correspond with your work history. The number of work credits you need to qualify for disability benefits depends on how old you were when you became disabled.
Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which you earned in the past 10 years ending with the year you become disabled. However, younger workers with disabilities may qualify with fewer credits. You likely have enough work credits to apply.
MYTH 4: You Should Wait to Apply Until You Condition Gets More Severe
It’s in your best interest to apply for benefits as soon as possible to avoid putting your health and future in jeopardy. The myth about waiting for your condition to become more debilitating is not true.
This is because Applying for Social Security benefits can be complicated and overwhelming, and the process can take an extended period of time, so it’s best to start as soon as possible. Additionally, if you have reached five years since being unemployed, at this point your work credits expire and you cannot apply.
Therefore, as long as you meet the requirements for SSD, you should apply as soon as you can to begin the process.
MYTH 5: Only Those 50-Years or Older Can Apply
There are many people receiving disability benefits across all age brackets. According to SSA.gov, more than 1-in-4 20 year old’s become disabled before reaching retirement age. You do not need to be middle-aged to receive benefits. It’s advised to speak with a skilled disability lawyer to help understand your options.
Don’t Put Off Applying for Disability Any Longer
Our Social Security Disability attorneys in Warren, MI are knowledgeable about the entire disability process and will help guide you through every step. Our lawyers will apply their skills and help ensure you have a higher chance of being approved for benefits.
Call the Disability Attorneys of Michigan to discuss your options. We’re here to answer your questions and help you determine the best path moving forward. Give us a call today for a FREE consultation at 800-701-5524.