SHOULD YOU FILE FOR DISABILITY? ARE YOU READY?

Filing for Social Security Disability (SSDI) is a big step.  You probably know that the process is usually long and frustrating.  Should you wait?  Are you ready to file now?  Let's ask a few questions to help you evaluate:

 1.  Are you now working?  If not, you may need to consider filing.  If you are working and earning $1,260 per month or more, you won't be eligible to file at this time.

 2.  Do you have a severe disability that is probably going to keep you from working for at least 12 straight months?  If you do, you definitely should consider filing.  SSDI doesn't pay for short term impairments lasting less than 12 months.

 3.  Has your doctor told you that you are probably not going to be able to return to work?  This is a good indication that it's time for file for disability?

 SSDI is a program sponsored by the US government that covers workers against long term disability.  You pay into it out of each paycheck you receive and your employer matches your contributions over the years.  This money accumulates in a trust fund, much like insurance premiums.  Then, if you have a disability which meets the conditions of the program, you are entitled to receive a monthly benefit.

 The average benefit is 2020 is around $1,258 per month, though it can be a lot more, based on your lifetime earnings.  

 One final thing:  Getting through the process and getting approved can take a long time.  If everything goes very smoothly, it takes at least 3 or 4 months.  If you are one of the many who are denied initially and must file appeals, it can take 18 to 24 months.  Don't wait longer than you should.

 If you'd like to have a free, no obligation case evaluation to see where you stand, just call us here in Huntsville at (256) 799-0297.  One of our experienced advocates will talk with you about whether you seem to meet the obvious qualifications for a disability claim and explain your next steps.

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