Social Security Disability Benefits: Your Rights And Responsibilities

When a long-term disability prevents you from working, it can create serious financial hardships for your family. Social Security disability benefits can provide a safety net. Depending on your eligibility, they can make up for up to two-thirds of your lost income. Our Orlando Social Security disability lawyer explains your rights and responsibilities in regard to these benefits.

Your Rights In Receiving Social Security Disability Payments

Social Security is funded through taxes that are deducted from your work paycheck. In addition to retirement benefits, you may be entitled to disability benefits that provide a steady source of income in the event an injury, illness, or chronic medical condition prevents you from working for a year or longer.

It is important to be aware of your rights when it comes to applying for Social Security disability and collecting payments. These include:

• The right to clear guidelines in terms of application and eligibility requirements;
• The right to have a lawyer assist you through the complex process of filing a claim;
• The right to information that can impact your application, such as lists of qualifying conditions and statements regarding your earned credits and income levels;
• The right to receive notification that your application was received and other important information concerning the claim process;
• The right to be notified if additional documentation is needed;
• The right to be notified of denial or approval within a reasonable timeline;
• The right to be provided with concrete reasons, in the event your claim is denied;
• The right to file an appeal if you think your denial was in error;
• The right to receive timely payments, once your benefits are approved;
• The right to engage in part-time work provided it falls within income levels.

Your Responsibilities In Obtaining Social Security Disability Benefits

Along with a bill of rights, the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides a clear list of responsibilities for people who are filing applications, are currently in the claims process or have begun receiving benefits. These include:

• To fill out the required forms and follow application submission guidelines;
• To provide personal information about your household, finances, and work activities;
• To provide information about your condition, including medical records and statements from your doctor and others involved in your care;
• To provide lists of medications, medical tests, and treatments you have undergone;
• To complete personal interviews, medical questionnaires, physicals, or other procedures required;
• To respond promptly to all communications received by the SSA;
• To report any changes in your health or disability status immediately;
• To report changes in income and any part-time work you perform.

Contact Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer

Social Security disability benefits provide a safety net if you are unable to work, but navigating the system can be challenging. You have the right to have an experienced Florida Social Security disability lawyer on your side, guiding you through the process. To discuss the details surrounding your claim, call or contact Farrell Disability Law online and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.

Sources:

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/

ssa.gov/ssi/spotlights/spot-rights-responsibilities.htm