Becoming disabled is never on anyone's to-do list. However, it can happen to anyone at any time. If it does, the question of how to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) might become an important issue. Workers in Pennsylvania may benefit from an overview of the process.
The first requirement is to submit all pertinent paperwork as soon as possible. The names and office addresses of every physician and medical facility that has provided treatment for the health issue upon which the application is based must be provided. The Social Security Administration also asks for the employment history of the applicant, dating back approximately 15 years.
Meeting the requirements for SSDI is usually more involved than applications for assistance from a private source or from other government programs. Once the application process is completed, an applicant will wait an estimated 26 weeks before disability benefits commence. Also, if one has worked for the government and applies for Federal Employee Retirement, including a disability claim, then an application for SSDI must also be submitted simultaneously.
Social Security Disability Insurance is designed to provide financial support for those suffering from either a mental or physical ailment that prevents them from returning to regular, productive employment for at least 52 weeks -- or for those suffering from a terminal illness. Pennsylvania workers who find themselves incapacitated may need help navigating the process. In those situations, one can seek the guidance of an experienced attorney to pursue claims for all of the benefits to which one is entitled.