Many people wonder whether they should apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In reality, you do not have to decide which one to apply for because it will be chosen for you when you interview for disability. The person who reviews your application (otherwise known as the claims representative) will make a decision at the time of your interview as to whether you will apply for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income.
If you have earned enough throughout your work history up to the point of your interview, then you can apply for Social Security Disability. You must have paid enough into the Social Security system to do so, and if you have not, then you will likely have to apply for SSI disability based on your income and other factors.
Applying for disability and waiting for your claim to be evaluated can be a long and arduous process. Even if you are applying for the first time for social security benefits, you may find yourself waiting as long as six months before you find out about your claim. Moreover, if your claim is not approved the first time, the appeals process can be just as long, if not longer. The entire process has been estimated to last, on average, for three months to more than one year. As a result, it is important to apply for disability as soon as possible if you cannot physically work during the time that the claims process takes place. If you would like the assistance of an experienced Social Security Disability attorney, contact the Shelly Leeke Law Firm today at 1-888-690-0211!
