QUESTION
How much will it cost me to file disability and how long will it take for an answer
Asked on Jun 01st, 2020 on Social Security Disability - New Hampshire
More details to this question:
I have SLE (Lupus) and a Low B cell lymphoma causing a multitude of pain and flare ups. I of course am immunocompromised. I went out of work March 25th . I applied for STD through my job but it was denied as my doctor also wrote a note for me to shelter in place which caused them to deny my case as the do not cover COVID prevention overlooking my health and symptoms. Figured I’ve been out of work with no pay except the 19 hours biweekly to cover my medical benefits and having notes stating my flares are closer and worse that maybe I could apply for Ssdi. It’s very hard for me to do my job now. I’m 60 yrs old and going for another 5 year just sounds impossible at this time.
2 ANSWERS
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There is no out of pocket fee associated with applying for SSDI benefits. If you are found favorable the law firm you hire will receive 25% if you are awarded backpay. The process can be time consuming and everything comes down to how organized you can be. Keep all appointments, stay updated on all medications, procudures etc.
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Answered on Jun 12th, 2020 at 11:06 AM
2 Awards
You do not need to pay to apply for SSDI. You do not need a lawyer to apply. You can apply online at www.ssa.gov. Most people are initially denied and must then ask for reconsideration and sometimes, after that, redetermination. A few must appeal to an administrative law judge. At that point, you need a lawyer. The lawyer's fees come out of back payments due you. If you lose, the lawyer gets nothing.
It usually takes about six months for an application to be processed. If you must apply for reconsideration, redetermination and then appeal to an administrative law judge, it can take 2 1/2 years.
SSDI (and for people who have not paid into the system long enough, Supplemental Security Insurance) is awarded based on the inability to do any job, not just the job you have, and for that inability to be expected to last at least 12 months. Older people are not expected to be able to retrain and get another job with the same ease as younger people.
The key to winning is to be polite, persistant and prompt. Keep a copy of everything: files frequently get lost at the Social Security Administration.
Answered on Jun 02nd, 2020 at 5:29 AM
This is general information. It cannot substitute for a personal consultation with an attorney. It is not intended to be legal advice or imply an attorney-client relationship.