Philadelphia Social Security Disability Law Blog

Even with the best preparation possible, many, if not most, applications for Social Security Disability benefits are denied in the initial stages. When this happens, a Philadelphia resident will have to wait for a hearing before an administrative law judge in order to make his case that he is entitled to disability benefits.

Unfortunately, the waiting time for these hearings is notoriously long, so long, in fact, that it has in recent months attracted attention from the national news media. To some extent, this is just part of the process with which a person has to live, as the months or even years of delay is largely a political problem.

Some injuries are more severe than others. Thy can be so severe, in fact, that a person may never fully recover from it. In these cases, the individual may have his or her life impacted for the rest of their life. This could mean the inability to live life as they once could, accomplish basic tasks, take care of him or herself and even maintain employment. In these cases, it is important to understand how the Social Security Administration could assist them. Even if the injury is recoverable, if it is disabling for a year or more, Social Security disability benefits may be available.

Take a brain injury for example. A head trauma occurring in a car crash, fall or a work accident could create many health issues. A person may struggle with daily pain in the form of headaches and migraines and their cognitive and speech skills could be impacted. While it is possible to recover from such an injury, it is often a long road.

Although we try to, we cannot predict the future. While individuals in Pennsylvania and elsewhere might plan and prepare for their future as best as they can, one cannot always be prepared for the unexpected. Take a disabling injury or condition. One cannot presume, especially at a young age, that he or she may no longer be able to work because of a disability. Because of this, these individuals need to obtain the necessary information so they can timely address their matter, such as applying for Social Security disability benefits.

What information is needed for SSD benefits? The Social Security administration need to determine that an applicant is suffering from an eligible disability before benefits can be awarded. Not only is medical documentation needed to prove he or she meets the SSA's definition of disability, an applicant must be able to indicate the type of work he or she was able to do prior to suffering a disability.

For individuals living in Pennsylvania and other states across the nation, it is clear that not everyone has the same abilities. This does not make anyone better or worse; however, it does mean that some individuals are faced with conditions or injuries that make it harder to do everyday things or even hold down a job. Living with a disability can present challenges. While it is possible to make accommodations and lead a normal life, one may still endure financial hardships due to ongoing medical costs and the inability to work.

Social Security disability benefits are designed to help those living with disabilities that are so serious he or she in unable to work. In order to obtain these benefits, individuals need to go through the application process. Many have probably heard how this process can be, causing them to be apprehensive. Because many initial applications are denied. However, this should not deter people from filing an application.