If you’re looking to apply for Social Security benefits in California, you might need to know about the requirements and rules that go with it. SSD stands for Social Security Disability, but you might also see this program under the title DIB (Disability Insurance Benefits) or RSDI (Retirement Survivors and Disability Insurance). If you have not contributed enough to qualify for DIB, if disabled, you may still qualify for SSI. To be eligible for SSD in California, a person must be unable to engage in work, which the SSA refers to as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). That being said, if you are still employed and earning more than about $1200/month, the SSA will probably consider this as engaging in SGA.
Although Social Security allows some trial work periods, where they allow you to collect benefits while working very limited hours and earning a small income amount per month, depending on the disabilities you claim, it will be more difficult to get your benefits if you’re still working. This doesn’t mean that you should be out of work for a long period of time before you apply. On the contrary, you can apply as soon as you have stopped working due to medical disabilities and with medical evidence you will be disabled for at least 12 consecutive months. Some people think their impairments will get better over time, or they will apply for other benefits and wait for those results before applying for SSD. We don’t recommend that you wait as it can keep you from getting the back pay you deserve. Having an Attorney guide you through the process will ensure you have the best advice regarding how to get the best outcome depending on your situation.
You can apply for Social Security benefits on line. Go to SSA.gov. ANY OTHER EXTENSION OTHER THAN .gov WILL PROBABLY TAKE YOU TO A LAW FIRM’s website, many of which designed to appear as if you are applying for Social Security benefits, AND PROVIDING THEM WITH INFORMATION MAY OBLIGATE YOU TO PAY AN ATTORNEY’S FEE TO THEM.
Once an Attorney has helped you through the application process, it’s always a good idea to have some evidence handy so your lawyer can have as much information about the case and they can make sure it gets to the proper representatives. This could include medical records, lists of medications, and sometimes even tax-related forms in case Social Security might need clarification on past work and wages. In fact, during the process of applying for SSD in California, a representative may even ask you about your day-to-day habits and how they affect your disabilities. Every case is different and varies greatly, so having an Attorney to consult is greatly recommended to make sure everything is processed accurately and on time.
Gold Country Workers’ Comp Center is a professional and successful law firm equipped to handle disability and workers’ comp claims including SSD in California. Our goal is to get you the long-term benefits you rightfully deserve. Call us for a free consultation at (530) 362-7188.
530-362-7188.
877-233-8399.
Related: Social Security law firm – GCWC
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