Do You Need Disability?

There has consistently been a rise in disability claims with Social Security in the last year.   More and more people are contracting diseases and conditions that are preventing them from being able to work.  The economy situation has definitely played a part in this, but when do you really know when you need disability?  Consider these when you are thinking of applying.

1. Before applying for Social Security benefits, find out if you have short and long-term disability through your work.  This is especially useful if the condition you have is temporary and won't last more than 12 months.  A lot of companies have this disability benefit.  It is something you have to pay for, but it is very cheap and worth it.    The employer's disability benefit is there to utilize if you have something that will not keep you from returning to work, but will keep you out of work for awhile.   The benefit isn't like getting paid from working, but at least it's an income.
2. Research the condition you have.  Ask yourself, "Is this permanent?  Can I live with this?  Is there some type of work I can do even with this?"  These are questions you want to ask yourself, because Social Security asks similar questions when they evaluate your condition.  What they are looking at is something that would prevent you from returning to work at least for 12 months.
3. They consider your age and education when evaluating eligibility.  A lot of times if you don't have a high school diploma, it gives you a better chance because it is going to be hard to re-educate you.  Also with certain conditions if you are over 50 years old, you have a better chance to get disability because your body can't heal or heal as well.  Heart disease is common for this one.
4. Make sure you have medical records and a good medical history that documents your condition.  This is especially important for psychological conditions.  They need to be documented well.  There is nothing wrong with being prepared.
5. Be prepared to fill out a lot of paperwork.  I think they want to discourage you from applying because there is a lot of paperwork to fill out just to get started.  Also don't forget to be patient.  This is a federal program and they always take a long time to come to a decision.

These are a few things to consider when you are considering to apply for disability.  Remember, this is a last resort benefit that you use if you don't have any other option.  By all means work if you can, even if you don't have experience or education in it.  

Helping you get the upper hand to change your life forever,

Peter Bunn
Rising Leader

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