How Do I Know If I Am Eligible For Supplemental Security Income
Disabled adults and children with limited resources and income may be eligible for supplemental security income. Adults aged 65 and older who dont have disabilities but meet the financial limits for SSI may also be eligible. Depending on the amount of time you have worked, you may be able to receive both social security disability benefits as well as supplemental security income.
Things To See And Do In Allegan County Michigan
In the unfortunate case of a disability, you will need to enter your social security disability claim. For you to qualify for a disability claim, you need proof to show that your impairment will last for at least a year, or result in death. In some cases, your ailment may not be on the list of approved impairments and disabilities. If this is the case, then you will need to provide medical evidence. The justification should show that the illness or injury is severe and debilitating.
The Steps Involved In Applying For Ssd And/or Ssi
Anyone who has dealt with government bureaucracy is well aware of the headache and stress that can follow. Applying for SSD and SSI benefits is no exception. The Social Security Administration follows a prescribed 5-step evaluation process for each adult disability claim filed. Our attorneys will help you understand the process and what will be needed for you to win your benefits.
Step 1 The first step the SSA takes is to examine your work record. If you are presently working, their agents will calculate how much your earnings have averaged per month during the last year. As of 2017, if you are earning over $1170 monthly , Social Security considers you to be engaged in Substantial Gainful Activity and does not regard you as disabled. Unfortunately, this is true even if your injury or illness has significantly lowered your earning power.
Step 2 The second step is an evaluation of the severity of your impairments. This is first accomplished by examining your medical records. In order for the SSA to consider you disabled, we must prove through medical evidence that your disability interferes with routine work-related activities. In addition, a standard of duration is applied. This means that in order to be declared fully disabled, medical professionals must expect you to be impaired for at least one year or to expect that your present condition will result in your death. As you can see, the government sets a high bar for being classified as disabled.
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How To Apply For Disability In Allegan County Michigan
In Michigan you may apply for social security disability insurance by calling your social office toll-free number and following the voice instructions. It is also possible to use a web form available on the administrations website. The last option would be to go to the offices for social security in Allegan County and make a physical application.
As you prepare to file your application, make sure you already have your social security number handy, and something such as your ID or passport that will help as proof of age. You will need names and addresses of any professionals such as doctors, caseworkers and nurses who have previously treated or taken care of you. Make sure you have the details of all your previous encounters with the health practitioners, especially the dates of visit. Get your medical records these will include the following.
- Test results from laboratories
- Reports from clinics, therapists, hospitals or caseworkers
Be ready to provide your employment and career records as captured in the following details.
- Present occupation
- Previous occupation
- A recent W-2 form/federal tax return copy
In addition you will also need social security numbers for any family member and proof of the same. Married people also need proof of marriage but this only applies to a spouse that applies for the benefits.
You May Qualify For Legal Assistance
Applying for Michigan disability is often confusing, and the process can take several months to complete. Why not have an experienced Social Security attorney help you get it right the first time? You can get confidential answers to your Michigan disability questions at a free, no-obligation consultation! All Michigan disability lawyers work on contingency, so youll pay nothing unless they help you get benefits.Denied once already and looking to appeal? A Michigan disability lawyer can review your claim for mistakes to fix before you move forward. Lawyers wont take on your case unless they think youll win. And if you do win, youll only pay a small, one-time fee.
Ready to see if you may qualify? Click the button below to start your free online benefits evaluation now!
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You Or Your Family Members May Be Eligible For Increased Benefits
Our mission is to deliver Social Security services that meet the changing needs of the public.
Its not unusual for a benefit recipients circumstances to change after they apply or became eligible for benefits. If you, or a family member, receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income , certain life changes may affect eligibility for an increase in your federal benefits. For example, if your spouse or ex-spouse dies, you may become eligible for a higher Social Security benefit.
To find out if you, or a family member, might be eligible for a benefit based on another persons work, or a higher benefit based on your own work, see the information about benefits on the Social Security website. You can also use the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool to find out if you could get benefits that Social Security administers. Based on your answers to questions, this tool will list benefits for which you might be eligible and tell you more information about how to qualify and apply.
The questions and answers below are about a few of the life changes that could possibly increase your benefits.
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What Should I Do If My Application For Social Security Disability Benefits Is Denied
Applicants have 60 days from the date of the denial notice to file an appeal in writing. This is a complicated process that includes four different levels of appeal. Typically, you must provide evidence that includes extensive documentation from your physicians. In addition, testimony from vocational experts or other professionals may be required.
Therefore, if your claim is denied, its wise to contact an experienced Social Security lawyer as soon as possible.
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What About Substance Abuse
Substance abuse wont automatically disqualify you from SDA benefits. During the review process, the Disability Examiner will determine whether substance abuse is a material contributing factor to your disability. If it is, your application will be denied. However, if substance abuse is not a material contributing factor, you may still receive benefits on the condition that you participate in a substance abuse treatment program.
The Ssd Application Process In Michigan
Michigans path to apply for Social Security Disability benefits is slightly different than some other states. Below, you can see how the process works.
INITIAL APPLICATION
There are 3 ways to apply for Social Security Disability benefits:
The application form for SSD Benefits requests a lot of information. Contact us now for help with the Social Security application process.
Many individuals are denied at this stage, even though they meet all the requirements for benefits.
Do not be intimidated by the application process. If you are disabled, you have the right to seek benefits.
RECONSIDERATION
In many states, the next step in the appeal process is called Reconsideration, but this step has been eliminated in Michigan. If you are denied, and live in the state of Michigan, you go straight into the Appeal stage.
APPEAL
If there is a denial on an Initial Application in Michigan, the next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge . A claimant has 60 days from the date of the denial to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Once the appeal and Request for Hearing have been filed, the average wait time for a hearing is typically between 12-18 months, although it can take longer.
An application for disability benefits can be denied for various reasons. The most common reasons are:
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How To File A Complaint
File a Recipient Rights ComplaintIf you feel your rights have been violated while receiving mental health services, you can file a Recipient Rights Complaint. Information on how to file a Recipient Rights Complaint is below.
- Disability Rights Michigan: ORR Complaints & Appeals
- Office of Recipient Rights Complaint Form
- Complaints can be filed with the Recipient Rights Office in your area. to find the Recipient Rights office in your area.
If you feel your rights have been violated while living in an Adult Foster Care home, nursing home or other shared living space, you can file a complaint with the State of Michigan. Information on how to file a complaint is below.
File a State of Michigan Complaint About a Licensed Adult Foster Care Home
If your complaint concerns abuse or neglect of a child or an adult, you can call Protective Services at 855.444.3911.
If you are seeking legal help, you can look for lawyers using the Michigan State Bar Find a Lawyer tool.
If you do not have enough money for a lawyer, you can call your local legal aid office for options.
Getting Help With Your Michigan Social Security Disability Claim
It’s easy to become overwhelmed with the disability application and appeals process. If your disability application and your reconsideration are denied, you should strongly consider hiring an attorney to represent you at your hearing. An experienced Social Security disability attorney can increase your chances of winning your case.
Self-help services may not be permitted in all states. The information provided on this site is not legal advice, does not constitute a lawyer referral service, and no attorney-client or confidential relationship is or will be formed by use of the site. The attorney listings on this site are paid attorney advertising. In some states, the information on this website may be considered a lawyer referral service. Please reference the Terms of Use and the Supplemental Terms for specific information related to your state. Your use of this website constitutes acceptance of the Terms of Use, Supplemental Terms, Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. Do Not Sell My Personal Information
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Social Security Disability Allegan County Michigan
Any worker who is presently above the age of 20 has about a one in three risk of becoming at least partially disabled due to injury and illness. The assumption of risk goes for the entire working life of the individual. Were all working to make a living and try to dedicate time and effort on creative and productive career pursuits. To continue doing that indefinitely requires a form of cushioning against the unfortunate incidence of disability. That safety net comes in the form of Allegan County Michigan social security disability insurance.
Faqs About Social Security
I FILED FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS IN MICHIGAN AND MY CLAIM WAS DENIED. WHAT DO I DO NOW?
It is not uncommon for SSA to deny an initial application for benefits. As soon as you receive a denial, you need to act immediately. You only have 60 days from the date stamped on the letter to appeal the denial and preserve your claim.
IF I GET SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE BENEFITS, WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT TO RECEIVE?
Disability Insurance Benefits may include Medicare medical coverage, individual benefits, and family benefits. The amount of the benefits is based on a formula in the Social Security Act, as well as the amount that the Internal Revenue Service shows as your SSA earnings.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM DISABLED FOR PURPOSES OF RECEIVING SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS?
Under the Social Security Act, an eligible “disability” means the “inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months or result in death.” If you are not certain if you qualify, you should speak with your family physician and contact our office regarding your qualifications for benefits.
I HAVE NOT WORKED IN RECENT YEARS. COULD I STILL QUALIFY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE BENEFITS?
I HAVE A MENTAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL CONDITION THAT PREVENTS ME FROM WORKING. CAN I STILL RECEIVE BENEFITS?
CAN I APPLY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS ON MY OWN?
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How Does Coronavirus Impact Social Security
Due to COVID-19, many local field offices are closed to the public. In most cases, you can call the office to schedule an appointment if you need to complete a transaction that can only be done in person. Otherwise, you will need to take care of your situation over the phone with the central office or online through the Social Security website.
How Long Does It Take To Get Approved For Disability In Michigan
On average, applications for SSI or SSDI benefits are processed three to five months after the date of the application.
SSI benefits typically begin in the first full month after the SSI claim was filed. If processing for the claim takes a month or more, SSI benefits will begin on the date that the individual is found eligible.
SSDI benefits begin in the sixth full month of disability. This six-month period begins with the first full month after the individuals disability began.
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Worker’s Compensation In Michigan
Worker’s compensation insurance provides financial assistance to employees in Michigan who are injured on the job or fall ill as a result of the workplace environment. This can be considered a type of short-term disability insurance because it provides financial help during the period the employee is not able to earn their salary or perform their job responsibilities because of the injury.
The Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Act covers injured Michigan workers and their employers. It requires most Michigan employers to buy a workers’ compensation insurance policy from a private insurance company, while a few companies are approved to be self-insured. The insurer provides wage replacement, medical expenses and rehabilitation benefits to the injured worker. As part of the structure of the program, the employer is relieved of civil liability for the injury.
Eligibility For Social Security Disability Benefits
The federal Social Security program provides both retirement and disability insurance benefits to most working Americans. The disability assistance program is limited to those who are totally disabled, that is, unable to perform any substantial gainful activity. The claimant must show that the disability is either terminal or else likely to prevent a return to work for a period of at least a year. The Social Security Administration publishes a long list of medical conditions that will qualify the claimant, including cancer and visual impairment.
Approximately 4.8 percent of the more than six million residents living in the State of Michigan receive Social Security Disability benefits. This system, however, will not assist those who are prevented from working by a shorter-term issue, such as a broken leg, a bout of depression or a pregnancy.
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Make Sure You Know Your Rights: Get An Experienced Disability Lawyer Today
If you have additional questions about disability and unemployment, you may benefit from a consultation with a Social Security Disability Insurance lawyer. We are able to give sound advice and representation to ensure you are in the best position possible to win your case.
A Grand Rapids and Muskegon Disability lawyer can assist you in contacting and meeting with your medical providers to obtain statements regarding your physical capabilities. Having these statements in your file, and having the statements worded properly, is extremely important for proving your case and winning benefits.
How To Qualify For Ptsd Disability Benefits In Michigan
PTSD is a mental disorder that is triggered by a traumatic event, and it can put you at risk for a variety of debilitating mental and physical problems. While PTSD symptoms typically begin within a few months of a traumatic event, they can also take several years to appear. In fact, many people have PTSD and dont truly understand the nature and extent of their condition. It is for this reason that you should contact a Michigan disability law attorney if you have PTSD, or have experienced a traumatic event, as you may be entitled to disability benefits.
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To Qualify For Medicare You Need To Get Disability Benefits From:
- Social Security
- Railroad Retirement Board
Youll automatically get Part A and Part B after you get disability benefits for 24 months. Well mail you a welcome package with your Medicare card.
If you or your spouse worked for a railroad, call the Railroad Retirement Board at 1-877-772-5772.
If you live in Puerto Rico or outside the U.S.
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Failing To Properly Prepare For Your Disability Hearing
Obtaining updated medical records, getting a more complete statement from your doctor or other qualified specialist, and conducting a thorough review of your case file are advised before attending your disability hearing in front of an Administration Law Judge . Taking the time to look for mistakes and correct any missing or incomplete information will help you increase the chances of an approval.
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