The very nature of a severe illness or debilitating disability that qualifies you for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can make it impossible for you to complete the necessary application paperwork. When a disability leaves you mentally or physically unable to navigate the complex Social Security Administration (SSA) application process, the support of friends, family, and legal support becomes essential.
If you or a loved one is too ill to manage their own SSDI claim, a person can step in to help them secure the benefits they need and deserve.
Understanding the Challenge
The SSA requires extensive documentation all of which must be accurately submitted to apply for Social Security Disability Benefits. For someone suffering from a severe, incapacitating illness, this administrative burden can be overwhelming or simply impossible due to:
- Physical Incapacity: Conditions requiring bed rest, intensive treatment, or constant medical care.
- Mental Incapacity: Illnesses causing severe cognitive impairment, chronic fatigue, depression, or an inability to focus.
The good news is that the SSA recognizes this issue and allows third parties to assist with the claims process.
How Friends and Family Can Help with the Application
If you are a relative, friend, or advocate assisting an ill individual, you can take a significant role in moving the SSDI claim forward by completing the necessary SSDI forms available online. You can complete the application on the disabled person’s behalf. Be sure to follow all instructions and provide accurate details regarding the claimant’s medical condition and work history.
Start by gathering documentation. This is often the most time-consuming step. You can help gather all required documents, including medical records, bank statements, and work history details.
Since someone other than the claimant fills out the paperwork, the SSA will reach out to the disabled person to obtain their signature and confirm the information. However, you may serve as their primary contact, managing communication and scheduling appointments.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If the forms or required documentation are confusing or if you anticipate a difficult case, seeking help from a disability advocate or attorney is wise. They can guide both you and the claimant through the process, ensuring the application is as strong as possible from the start.
Why SSDI Benefits Are Crucial
Applying for SSDI benefits when an illness prevents work is critical for several reasons, and your help ensures these benefits are secured. For many, SSDI is the only source of income once they are no longer able to work, providing financial stability until they become eligible for retirement benefits.
SSDI recipients become eligible for Medicare after 24 months of receiving benefits. Those who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may be immediately eligible for Medicaid. This access to ongoing medical coverage is life-saving when dealing with a chronic illness.
These benefits are funded by the Social Security taxes deducted from the claimant’s paychecks throughout their working life. They have paid into the system and deserve to receive these benefits when they need them most.
The Possibility of Denial and Appeals
It is important to understand that the initial SSDI approval process can be difficult, as demonstrating a person’s disability on paper often proves more challenging than expected. If the SSA denies the initial claim, you can continue to assist by filing an application for reconsideration or request assistance from legal support.