Like the rest of the country, many people in San Diego and nearby areas in California are unable to work due to an permanent injury, a chronic illness or some other medical condition. Owing to the lack of income, it often becomes difficult for those individuals to meet even day to day expenses. Fortunately, they are eligible to certain monetary benefits from the Social Security Disability Insurance program, which is commonly known as SSD benefits.
Applying for SSD benefits
The first step in the process is to apply for benefits. An individual or a representative can apply online, by phone, by mail, or in person. Generally speaking, the steps involved in the application process are as follows:
- The applicant gathers all necessary information and documents.
- The applicant then files the application via any of the channels mentioned earlier.
- The SSA them reviews the application to make sure that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria.
- The SSA also checks whether the applicant has worked a sufficient number of years or not.
- Next, the SSA evaluates the applicant’s current work activities.
- The SSA them forwards the reviewed application to the California Disability Determination Services.
- The state agency them makes the final disability determination decision.
Upon completion of these steps, the applicant is informed about whether he or she is eligible for benefits or not.
Denial of SSD benefits
In many cases, the application for benefits is declined by the Disability Determination Services. The reasons for such rejection are many and dealing with that can often be overwhelming for a disabled person or family member. Fortunately, the SSA allows applicants to appeal a decision and when that happens, it may be a smart choice on part of the applicant to seek professional help in order to receive SSD benefits.