It's true that Social Security disability decisions are made in "layers." The first layer almost never works out for the claimant. Layer 1 is the application process, which is all on paper. You fill out an application and it usually gets denied. You must get past layer one to get your benefits.
In Alabama, layer number 2 is the hearing before an administrative law judge. Here, you get about 45 minutes to explain your disability, tell why you aren't able to work and submit new evidence. Here, in layer 2, mistakes made in layer 1 are corrected by the judge. This is where most benefits get approved and paid.
It is a mistake to keep filing new applications--because this keeps you in layer one the entirely time. You want to move up to layer 2, where your odds are at least twice as high as they were in layer one.
The simple moral of the story: Appeal, Appeal, Appeal.
For help, just call us. Free evaluations.
Phone (256) 431-1599 (256) 799-0297
Friday, March 10, 2017
I GET DISABILITY CHECKS FROM MY INSURANCE COMPANY? CAN I STILL GET SOCIAL SECURITY?
Many workers are covered by 2 disability plans: a group plan provided by their employer (through a private insurance company) and Social Security.
If you are receiving a disability check from an insurance company, you are still eligible to apply for Social Security disability benefits. In fact, most insurance companies will require you to apply for Social Security.
All you need to do is document to Social Security that your check is a disability benefit, not wages. This is easy to do.
Can you get both Social Security disability and insurance company disability benefits? This depends entirely on the terms of your insurance policy. However, in most cases, the insurance company will reduce their payments once you get approved for Social Security. You may end up getting the disability benefit provided by your insurance, minus the Social Security benefit.*
_______
*Our firm does not provide advice or assistance concerning disputes or problems involving private insurance plans, companies or issues. Our practice is limited strictly to matters of Social Security disability.
If you are receiving a disability check from an insurance company, you are still eligible to apply for Social Security disability benefits. In fact, most insurance companies will require you to apply for Social Security.
All you need to do is document to Social Security that your check is a disability benefit, not wages. This is easy to do.
Can you get both Social Security disability and insurance company disability benefits? This depends entirely on the terms of your insurance policy. However, in most cases, the insurance company will reduce their payments once you get approved for Social Security. You may end up getting the disability benefit provided by your insurance, minus the Social Security benefit.*
_______
*Our firm does not provide advice or assistance concerning disputes or problems involving private insurance plans, companies or issues. Our practice is limited strictly to matters of Social Security disability.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)