Helping someone apply for permanent disability benefits who has liver disease and a spinal fusionGood morning, an adult family member is in the hospital suffering from liver disease, a bacterial infection and pneumonia. He had a spinal fusion 20 years ago that has never healed properly and physicians are now testing to see if that fusion is affecting his digestive system. I spoke with the hospital social worker and I was told that he will have to apply for Permanent Disability benefits in person. As he is ill and will most likely remain hospitalized for at least a month, how do we help him apply for benefits? Does he need to assign a medical proxy to apply on his behalf? Also, if he is hospitalized other than a physician diagnosis, does he still need to be assessed through the Department of Social Security in order to receive benefits? He will most likely be transferred to a rehab facility after his released from the hospital. Thanks for your for your assistance. He can file for Social Security Disability benefits by phone from the hospital or rehabilitation facility. If at all possible it is best for him to file his own disability claim because there are questions about the jobs he has held over the fifteen years prior to their becoming disabled to work and their medical history. Anyone can file the disability claim, but the applications and medical release form must be signed by your family member. Lastly, there is no other way to receive disability benefits other than a medical determination conducted by Social Security. 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: How to Apply for Disability - Where do I go to apply? Social Security considers any job relevant that was performed in the last fifteen years How does Social Security view your work and medical records How will an attorney help me win disability benefits? Financial Help When You Are Filing For Disability How the condition limits the person's ability to work |
