We are asked plenty of questions about Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Here are a few of the most commonly asked disability-related questions and answers, along with additional important information.
HOW MUCH DOES SSD BENEFITS PAY?
While the maximum benefit has risen to $4,152 per month, the average monthly payment is about $1,630. Your exact amount is based on your income, work credits, and tax history. This applies only to Title II benefits and not SSI benefits. The maximum benefit for SSI is $994 per month.
WHEN SHOULD I APPLY FOR BENEFITS?
We recommend you apply for benefits as soon as you know you’ll be unable to work. Unfortunately, the application process can take a while — sometimes a year or longer! So, the sooner you submit your application, the sooner your application can begin being processed.
DO I NEED LEGAL REPRESENTATION TO APPLY FOR BENEFITS?
Technically, no, you do not. However, your odds of being approved for benefits can increase by up to 33% if you obtain legal assistance. Since the SSA typically denies most first-time applications, obtaining legal help can help avoid the initial denial.
HOW LONG DOES THE DISABILITY APPLICATION PROCESS TAKE?
While completing and submitting the application does not take long, waiting for a decision is when your patience may be tested. Currently, we are seeing decision wait times ranging from 3 to 6 months.
If your initial application is denied, you have 60 days from the date you receive the denial notice to file a reconsideration request. This is your first level of appeal, and it involves a total review of your claim by a different examiner, someone not involved in the first decision.
HOW MUCH DOES LEGAL REPRESENTATION FOR MY CLAIM COST?
Typically, legal fees are only paid if you win disability benefits; this is called a contingency basis. Then, fees are taken directly from back pay (past-due benefits). There is also a limit to the amount of fees an attorney can charge. This is called a fee cap and is set by the SSA. Currently, the fee cap is set to $9200. This means the amount an attorney can charge for their fee is 25% of your back pay, up to $9200.
As you can see, there are many parts involved in applying for and receiving disability benefits. If you plan to apply, your best decision is to obtain legal representation. The legal team at Parmele Disability Advocates has over 150 years of combined legal experience and only practices in VA and SSA disability law. You can be confident you will receive an experienced, knowledgeable attorney to help obtain your benefits.
Contact us today to schedule your no-cost consultation: 866-889-2570. Together, we will review your situation, answer your questions and help determine the next best steps.
Parmele Disability Advocates. Helping you get the benefits you deserve.