Should the time come in your life to make a Social Security Disability claim, you’re likely to have concerns about the process itself and your ability to protect your legal rights. Adding to this, if you don’t know what’s fact and what’s fiction, there’s a chance you could soon head down the wrong path.
Avoid these myths
There are many myths associated with Social Security Disability and the claims process, with these five having the potential to harm you:
- You can file a claim on your own: While it’s true that you don’t need an attorney to file a Social Security Disability claim, neglecting to get legal assistance can make it more difficult to move through the process and achieve the desired result. The application forms are notoriously complicated.
- Giving up after a denial: It’s frustrating to receive a denial letter, but that doesn’t mean you should give up and look for other means of maintaining financial stability. You have the legal right to file an appeal within 60 days, so don’t hesitate to do so. Continue to fight until you receive the compensation you deserve.
- You don’t really need to seek medical treatment: This is a common myth that will cause you trouble. Many Social Security Disability claims are denied because people stop seeing their medical team and following their advice. Not only is this a mistake because it can harm your ability to obtain benefits, but it also puts your health at risk.
- It’s okay to take on part-time work: While you’re allowed to do this while still receiving Social Security Disability benefits, there’s often gray area with respect to income and hour limits. It’s best to avoid part-time work altogether.
- You can also file for unemployment benefits: When filing for benefits, you must prove to that you have the ability to hold down a job. But when you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you’re trying to prove that you’re unable to work.
Don’t fall prey to any of these myths. Understand the Social Security Disability claim process, take the right steps and do whatever you can to protect your legal rights. You don’t want your impairment to dictate your future.