Debunking Common Myths About Social Security Disability

Myth No. 1: The SSA tells you the whole truth.

Unfortunately, some of the advice Social Security Administration (SSA) employees provide to the public is incorrect.

Don’t get me wrong, I do not believe that these employees set out to deliberately misinform people about the Social Security Disability Income benefits process, but clients have relayed to me some misinformation they received from SSA employees.

If you don’t like the answers you have received from SSA, contact a disability attorney who may be able to more accurately answer your question.

Myth No. 2: The SSA will approve your disability claim.

Just because you have paid your social security taxes your whole life, your disability claim will not automatically be approved.

Social Security’s own statistics indicate that over 70 percent of initial disability benefit applications are denied.

If you appeal your denial, your chances of winning go up significantly.

Using a Louisiana Social Security disability lawyer may help you even more.

Myth No. 3: All you need to prove your disability is a medical opinion that you are disabled.

While such an opinion can be extremely helpful, in order to obtain social security disability benefits, you need to prove your disability and that you are not suited for any work.

An opinion from your doctor that you are disabled must be supported by medical evidence and other evidence.

Your limitations from working should be evident from the medical records and other objective evidence you submit to SSA.

An unsupported medical opinion, even if from your doctor, that you are disabled may not be enough to get your benefits.

A Metairie SSDI lawyer can help you get the right evidence in your file and presented to SSA so that you can have the best possible opportunity to get benefits.

Myth No. 4: You have to wait for at least 12-months after becoming disabled before applying.

Unfortunately, this myth can cost you significant benefits.

SSA law requires that you are (1) disabled and out of work for one year, OR (2) have a significant medical condition that is expected to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, OR (3) have a medical condition expected to result in death.

You can apply for SSDI as soon as you and/or your doctor(s) believe your medical condition will prevent you from working for at least 1 year.

If you believe your medical condition may prevent you from working for 1 year, you should seek assistance from a Social Security disability attorney to help you get the benefits you need.