Disability is something most people do not like to think about. But if you're not able to work because you have a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death, you may be able to get Social Security disability benefits. Here's what you need to know.
You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. It can take months to obtain all your medical records and process an application for disability benefits (three to five months, on average).
Generally, the information we need includes:
"¢ Your Social Security number;
"¢ Names, addresses and phone numbers of the doctors, caseworkers, hospitals, and clinics that took care of you, and dates of your visits;
"¢ Names and dosage of all the medicine you take;
"¢ Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics and caseworkers that you already have in your possession;
"¢ Laboratory and test results; and
"¢ A summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did;
IMPORTANT _ Do not delay filing for disability benefits if you don't have all the above information in your possession. Social Security will assist you in getting the necessary documents, including obtaining your medical records.
The fastest and most convenient way to apply for disability is online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability. You can save your application as you go, so you can take a break at any time.
If you prefer, you may call our toll-free number, (800) 772-1213, to make an appointment to apply either at your local Social Security office or by telephone.
If you are approved for disability benefits, that doesn't mean you'll never return to work. Social Security has special rules called "work incentives" that allow you to test your ability to work. Take a look at the following story:
Megan Riggs was just like many other people in their late 20s _ bright, ambitious, and full of life. She earned bachelor's degrees in forensic science and biology, with a minor in chemistry. Riggs started working and building her career. In her spare time, she pursued her passion, competitive ballroom dancing.
In January of 2008, Riggs had a major depressive episode. Her illness caused her to lose her job, and financial struggles resulted. Riggs qualified for Social Security disability benefits. The monthly payments helped keep her afloat financially, but even then she had the desire to work again. Knowing she would need help returning to work, she looked to Social Security's "Ticket to Work" program and other work incentives for support on her path back toward self-sufficiency.
Riggs learned that the Ticket program was free, voluntary and designed specifically for adults who receive disability benefits through Social Security. She decided the program was a good fit for her, as it would help her find a career that could lead to a brighter future.
Once Riggs made her choice to participate in the Ticket to Work program, she decided to work with an Employment Network that provides employment support and guidance. The EN helped Riggs develop a plan to achieve her work goals and offered advice on career building, job placement, training and counseling. "I could try work," said Riggs. "I knew I wasn't going to be on my own."
Using her Ticket, she was able to test her abilities, build her confidence, and continue to receive her benefits while working toward becoming fully self-sufficient.
Through Social Security's work incentives, she maintained her health care coverage, which gave her peace of mind.
Riggs found stable employment.
As a result of her hard work, she now works as a document control specialist, earning more money than she received on disability benefits.
The Ticket to Work program helped Riggs achieve a more fulfilling life by helping her regain the satisfaction of work.
She now enjoys working, reading, spending time with her cocker spaniels, and has even been able to return to competitive ballroom dancing.
"With Ticket to Work, I've received the tools to excel and the help of people to keep me going," she said.
Thousands of Social Security beneficiaries like Megan Riggs have earned more money, begun careers, learned new skills, and met new people through the Ticket to Work program.
To learn more, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/work.
tracey L. weaver is district manager of the Oneonta office of the Social Security Administration. 'Senior Scene' columns can be found at www. thedailystar.com/seniorscene.
Senior scene
Social Security: Don't wait on paperwork to file for disability benefits
- Senior scene
-
-
Looking Back: A sad ending for adorable, sweet Taffy-toes
Another unwanted drop-off? Yes and so I must write this.
-
As Time Goes By: Dealing with side effect of pills can really be a pain
At age 76, I find myself incontinent. Actually the problem started well before that date but now it has gone beyond "a problem," to "holy smoke the dam broke."
-
From the Office: Try spring cleaning, organizing for stress release
-
Looking Back: Take your time, think ahead before making decisions
A lifetime may seem forever for some, especially when we were young and couldn't wait to grow up and get to do all things we saw the adults do. Come to think of it, perhaps that wasn't too good.
-
As Time Goes By: Getting sick in the southern sun
I went and did it - I have heard about southern hospitality so much that I thought I would see if it extended to the hospitals as well.
-
From the Office: Despite professional advice, we still eat too much sodium
High blood pressure affects many seniors, putting them at risk of heart disease and stroke. The risks are much higher if they have diabetes, too.
-
Looking Back: Shopping just isn't the same when you get older
-
Social Security: Learn more about Social Security's own 'Final Four'
A fellow Social Security employee wrote this entertaining and informative article and shared it with me. I think it's worth sharing with all of you. Hope you enjoy it…
-
As Time Goes By: Coming of age in the grocery store
-
From the Office: Ensure you are safe when you take to the roads
The ability to drive is something that most of us count on, whether it be to get to work, shopping, medical or other appointments, visiting friends and family and any number of other activities. When the vehicle or the driver is out of commission, life can certainly be more difficult.
-
Looking Back: What's in name? Sometimes a lot when talking about pets
When remembering years gone by, I always think fondly of the many delightful pets we had. I still miss them as each one had their own distinct personality that was so enchanting, entertaining and even sometimes exasperating.
-
As Time Goes By: Tell my leg to stop pulling my leg
After 76 years of living with it, I have decided that my right leg has a mind of its own.
-
From the Office: Don't miss a deduction when filing taxes this year
Happy New Year, everyone! It is that time of year when we are busy getting our tax paperwork in order. Before filing your taxes, don't miss out on deductions related to medical expenses and other costs that come out of your wallet, especially if you care for a family member throughout the year.
-
Looking Back: Belief of life after death offers tranquility
As I write this column tears of sadness have been shed. I didn't think I could express myself for fear of sounding so remorseful to the point of despair.
-
Social Security: Website now offers more through my Social Security portal
Happy New Year! As we enter 2013, I want to share some exciting news regarding recent enhancements made to our website. Take a look at the following news release that came out Jan. 7 from Social Security's press office, telling us all about a new service available to the public.
-
As Time Goes By: It's a New Year and why am I still hung over?
Here we are, New Year's revelry has passed and now for those who imbibed too much the "price" must be paid.
-
From the Office: Stay warm during cold winter months to avoid hypothermia
The winter months can be a difficult and dangerous time for anyone living in this area of the country where temperatures regularly fall below freezing.
-
It helps to face old age with a happy heart
How do old folks feel when it comes to living through that time in their lives? Well, I’m at the 80-year mark now, and believe me, this is not what is said to be “Golden Years� in any form whatsoever!
-
Social Security: An oldie but goodie on Frosty the Snowman and direct deposit
Yes, it's that time of year again -- time to go through my dad's old holiday articles and choose one to share with everyone.
-
As Time Goes By: It's that time of year -- time for Christmas memories
"Christmas is coming the goose is getting fat -- please put a penny in the old man's hat." With those words my mother would herald the season of gift-giving which usually started a few weeks before the 25th of December.
-
Looking Back: A sad ending for adorable, sweet Taffy-toes
