Anyone that lives in Oklahoma who has a disability and can’t work any longer can apply for disability benefits in Oklahoma. The money that you receive from disability benefits can be used to help you pay for your living expenses like housing, utilities, and food.
There are two different types of Oklahoma disability benefits that you can apply for. The type that you are eligible for is based on when you became disabled. If you have been disabled since childhood and you’ve never been able to work you can apply for SSI.
But, if you have worked in the past and can’t work now because you have developed a disabling condition you should apply for SSDI.
1. Meeting Requirements to Receive Benefits in Oklahoma
If you have worked in the past but now you can’t work because of a disability you can apply for SSDI from the Social Security Administration. To be approved for disability benefits in Oklahoma you will need to meet all of the different requirements set by the Social Security Administration including:
Medical Requirements
Medical requirements are an important part of your application. You must submit a letter of diagnosis that proves you have been diagnosed with a disabling medical condition that is recognized by the SSA.
Medical records like blood tests, imaging, and treatment notes from your doctor are also required. The medical records you submit should show you meet the specific requirements for the condition that you have that are listed in the SSA’s Blue Book.
Work Requirements
Anyone who is applying for SSDI in Oklahoma will also have to show that they have earned a set number of work credits before their application can be approved. The number of work credits required depends on your age and how much you’ve worked. If you’re an adult older than 24 you typically need to have 40 work credits to qualify for SSDI.
Financial Requirements
The SSI has no set asset or income limits that you must meet to qualify for SSDI, however, you must be able to prove that you can’t perform any substantial gainful activity to be approved for SSDI.
If you’re an Oklahoma resident who has never been able to work because you have been disabled since childhood, or if you have a child who is disabled and need extra help paying for the child’s expenses, you can apply for SSI. But when you apply for SSI in Oklahoma you will have to show that you meet these requirements:
Medical Requirements
Just like with SSDI, you must be able to prove that you have a disabling condition that is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book and that you meet the specific requirements for the condition that you have. You can look through the Blue Book online or visit your local library or SSA office to look through a copy in person.
Work Requirements
There are no work requirements to qualify for SSI, but you must be able to prove that you are unable to engage in any paid work to qualify.
Financial Requirements
If you apply for SSI in Oklahoma, you must be able to show that your total monthly income is less than $1,273 if you are a single person. You also must have assets that total no more than $2,000. Your primary residence and vehicle are usually not counted as part of your asset total.
Even though both SSDI and SSI are disability benefit programs there are differences between the two that are based on whether or not at some point you were able to work.
An Oklahoma disability lawyer can help you understand the differences between the two programs and help you figure out which one you are eligible for. A disability lawyer in Oklahoma can also help you collect the documents you need to apply.
2. Filling Out Oklahoma Disability Application
Many people find the Oklahoma disability application confusing and a little overwhelming. It’s a good idea to look the application over thoroughly before you start. And make sure that you gather your medical records and other documents before you start filling out the application.
You can start your application for SSI or SSDI in Oklahoma online through the SSA’s website. You can also call the SSA and start an application over the phone.
Or, if you need help filling out the application you can make an appointment at any Oklahoma Social Security Administration office. Your local SSA office in Oklahoma is a great resource if you need help with any part of your SSI or SSDI application.
It’s very important that you fill out the application correctly and thoroughly. Working with a disability lawyer from Oklahoma is recommended to make sure that you are filling out the forms correctly and including the right medical documentation with your application.
3. Tracking Your Application & Follow-Up
Don’t worry if you don’t hear anything about your application for some time after you apply. You may wait three to five months before you get a decision on your application. You may even have to wait longer if there is a backlog of applications for disability benefits in Oklahoma.
You may receive letters from the SSA detailing next steps or asking you to attend a consultative exam. If you receive anything from the SSA during the time your application for Oklahoma disability benefits is being processed you must respond immediately. If you don’t, they may drop your Oklahoma disability application.
It’s a good idea to work with an Oklahoma disability attorney who can answer your questions, help you through the application process, and help you respond to any questions from the SSA. Working with a lawyer will give you the support you need to make sure that you fill out the application or other paperwork correctly.
Is it Hard to Get Approved for Disability in Oklahoma?
The approval rating for SSDI and SSI applications in Oklahoma is around 40%. That means most people get denied on their first attempt. The best way to increase your chance of getting an approval is to work with an Oklahoma disability lawyer.
Don’t let the approval rating discourage you from applying. Most people do get denied initially, but some are approved. And if your application is denied you have many options for appeals. If your application is denied you can fix any mistakes in the initial application, you don’t have to start the process all over.
Tips for Getting Approved in Oklahoma
The best things you can do to get your application for disability benefits in Oklahoma approved quickly are:
- Work with an Oklahoma disability attorney
- Make sure you meet all deadlines
- Fill out the application correctly and completely
- Submit all the medical evidence you can get
- Submit any supporting documents you think might help
- Make sure you meet all the Blue Book requirements
Connect with a Disability Attorney in Oklahoma
Working with an Oklahoma disability attorney can increase the chances that your application for disability benefits will get approved, or that your appeal will be approved. Disability attorneys know the ins and outs of applying for disability benefits. They can help you collect evidence, answer your questions, and help you fill out the application forms correctly.
You don’t need to pay anything to speak with an Oklahoma disability attorney about your claim. Fill out the Free Case Evaluation right now and you’ll be connected with a disability attorney in Oklahoma for free today.
