A sudden fall from a significant height or a diagnosis for a long-term disease can leave many people in Maryland uncertain of what the future holds. They may be left unable to work and therefore care for themselves or their family. However, there are options available to them and one of those options is Social Security Disability. This program offers financial benefits to people who have become severely ill or unable to perform any type of job.
One way that people can improve their chances is to stop working. This may seem like strange advice, but it will strengthen their claim that their condition has left them unable to work. The next thing to do is to make sure that they are not earning more than what Social Security has set as the earning limit. For 2016, people’s monthly income cannot amount to more than $1,130.
Having the right kind of medical records is also important. Applicants should gather together every piece of medical evidence from the moment they first started seeing a doctor for their symptoms. The evidence should show the effect of the condition on the person’s ability to work or engage in other activities, and the seriousness of it. Additionally, they should provide a clear pattern of regular doctor visits for the condition and treatment. This shows Social Security that the person applying for benefits has done everything possible and that the illness or disability is ongoing, meeting its requirements that it must last for at least one year.
If people are considering filing for disability benefits through Social Security, they may find it extremely helpful to meet with an attorney. An attorney can explain to them what they will need in terms of evidence for their condition, work history, and other paperwork.