Many individuals in Colorado and elsewhere rely on their ability to work to make a suitable living. When a medical condition disrupts one’s life in this area, he or she could face numerous hardships, potentially prompting a need to seek relief. Individuals who are no longer able to maintain gainful employment might be eligible for benefits through Social Security Disability Insurance, but they may have concerns about the process.
One concern for many is whether they are even eligible to receive benefits through Social Security disability. To qualify, one’s condition must be severe enough to prevent him or her from maintaining a certain level of work, and must last or be expected to last over one year. There may also be additional requirements which pertain to a person’s previous work history.
In determining eligibility, as well as determining the amount of benefits one will receive, the Social Security Administration will factor in a person’s previous work credits. Since individuals who are below a certain age may not be able to meet these requirements, the work credits of their parents could play a role in the process. In addition, if a person is receiving benefits from another source, such as workers’ compensation, this may have an impact on the amount of benefits one could receive.
Studies suggest that as many as 60 percent of first time applicants for Social Security disability receive a denial on their claim. Since a similar outcome could prove devastating, those who face such circumstances could find it beneficial to speak with an experienced attorney for assistance in navigating the process. An attorney can provide a client in Colorado with advice in covering every aspect of the application process and subsequently assist in pursuing the full amount of benefits deserved through the necessary outlets.
Source: CBS News, “When a sudden disability ends your income“, Ray Martin, Oct. 12, 2017