The coronavirus pandemic that is consuming every aspect of our lives right now has many people fearful of the future and what that may look like. Many have lost their jobs or will likely lose their job in the days and weeks ahead. For some of those individuals, filing for Social Security disability may be in their best interest.
Before I describe who might benefit from filing for Social Security disability, it is important to understand what Social Security disability is NOT:
- It is not a short-term fix to replace income on a temporary basis.
- It is not for someone who intends to return to full time work within 12 months.
- It is not for someone who has some minor health issues but otherwise in good health.
- It is not for someone who has very little to no work history.
- It is not intended for young individuals who have the ability to work despite having some health complications.
- It is not for someone who has health problems but does not go to the doctor.
The individual that would benefit from filing for Social Security disability would have some or all of these characteristics:
- Prior to losing their job they were struggling to perform their job due to their health.
- They have a good and consistent work history.
- They have been to the doctor and have a good record of their health problems.
- Even if another job fell into their lap tomorrow, they worry about being able to handle it due to their health.
- Their doctor has encouraged them to stop working.
- They are nearing Social Security retirement age but are struggling to make it due to lingering health issues that are getting worse.
- Their health issues are not expected to improve within 12 months.
While these are difficult days, it is important to remember that it will not always be this way. We are resilient and will bounce back. Some of you may not see any hope for the future, but Social Security disability may be that light at the end of the tunnel you are looking for. For those that would not qualify for Social Security disability, make sure you research other alternatives such as expanded unemployment benefits.
If you believe you would benefit from Social Security disability, you should call my office at 575-300-4000 for a free consultation. We can help you know for sure whether you would be a good candidate and we can answer questions you might have. If you want to go forward, we represent Social Security disability claimants at all stages of the process, including at the application level. We do not charge you a fee unless we are able to get you approved for disability and get you back pay benefits. We look forward to visiting with you.