How to get disability, tip 3If you are applying for SSI or Social Security Disability, do not assume that you will receive a decision on your claim for several months. In fact, do not assume that your claim will be processed within any deadline cited by the Social Security office. The truth is simply this: there are no deadlines that apply to disability cases and timeframes that are routinely cited by SSA employees are only speculative estimations based on averages. Often, these average timeframes are fairly close on the mark, but, often, "averages" can be very misleading and not particularly helpful. So, don't count on them, particularly when it comes to planning your finances around them. You may get a decision on your social security or ssi claim in one month, four months, or more than six months, but there will be no way to forecast exactly how long the decision will take. Because claims go on for so long, if you have any way to reduce your outgoing bills at the time you begin your disability claim, try to do so. Many applicants for Social Security Disability and/or SSI benefits are absolutely stunned when it becomes apparent just how long a claim can take in Texas. And too many claimants wind up in the position of no longer being able to make the payments on a second car that, perhaps, should have been sold months before a disability application or appeal was begun. If you can rid yourself of excess monthly financial obligations when you enter into the SSA disability process, do so to avoid financial and monetary complications later. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: What is the criteria for disability benefits in North Carolina? Social Security Disability Appeal Deadlines Filing for SSI disability How do I apply for SSI and who is eligible? SSI disability application process Steps of The Social Security Disability Determination Process Who will decide my Social Security Disability claim? Will I qualify for disability Benefits in New York Getting a Disability Lawyer in New York How do Disability Lawyers in New York get paid their fees? |