Be Patient during the Social Security Disability Application Process
It is easier said than done, but you’ll need to be patient while applying for disability benefits. Although we understand that most individuals applying for disability benefits have medical bills and living expenses to take care of and would prefer to receive a quick decision on their claim, we try to warn people to anticipate a lengthy wait.
Here are some tips to remain patient during the Social Security Disability application process:
- Take the necessary time to thoroughly review your initial application prior to submitting it.
- Dedicate the necessary time to collect as your medical records to submit to the Social Security Administration (SSA) along with your initial application.
- Prepare yourself for a long wait. Although a long wait is less than ideal, there is very little that can be done to speed the process. At least four to five months pass before most applicants receive a decision on their initial disability claim.
Completing Your Initial Application
Although hurrying through the application paperwork may save you a bit of time to begin with, it will only hurt your application in the future and potentially cause you an even longer wait. Those that rush through the Social Security Disability application often make mistakes and leave out crucial information.
Without the appropriate information in your application, the SSA will have to take additional time to fill in the missing details. The more detailed information you provide during the initial stage of the application, the easier it will be for the SSA to make a decision on your claim.
Collecting Your Medical Records and Other Documentation
As stated in the previous section, the more information you provide, the easier it will be for the SSA to review your case. This goes for medical documentation as well. Thorough medical records are required for making a disability decision. Any gaps or missing details in your records will only delay the SSA’s determination of your eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits. Take the necessary time to collect as many of your records as possible. This is critical to receiving a favorable determination on your disability application, so be patient and dedicate the time to getting the job done right.
Remaining Patient during the Review Process
There is little you can do to speed up the application and review processes for disability benefits. Getting discouraged or distressed in any way because of the long wait for a decision will only worsen your physical or emotional condition. Accept that the process will take several months or longer and mentally prepare yourself for a lengthy wait.
There are very few instances in which the wait for a determination on disability is shortened. In most cases, only those with terminal illnesses or extremely desperate circumstances have their applications expedited.
