how long does it take to get disability without a lawyer in kentucky

Do I need a Kentucky disability lawyer?

Otherwise, a Disability Determination Services (DDS) exam must confirm your condition stops you from working at least 12 months. A Kentucky disability lawyer can cover your doctor’s visits and medical records if you can’t afford them yourself. Are you currently aged 18-65 and not receiving any Social Security benefits?

How long does it take to get disability benefits in Kentucky?

The SSDI program takes about 3-5 months to process each Kentucky disability claim. Federal law requires a five-month waiting period before anyone can get SSDI payments after their claim’s approved. If you wait that long before you apply, you can skip this mandatory wait period.

How old do you have to be to get disability in Kentucky?

You Must Be Disabled, Blind or at Least 65 Years Old to Qualify SSI applicants automatically pass the program’s medical screening based on age alone if they’re at least 65 years old. But younger claimants must pass a DDS medical exam in order to qualify for Kentucky disability benefits.

Can I file for both SSDI and Kentucky disability at once?

Luckily, you can use the same application to file for Kentucky disability benefits through both programs. Just check one box on your claim form, and the SSA screens you for both Kentucky disability payments at once! SSDI is a federal disability insurance program that American workers pay premiums for with every paycheck.

How long does it take to get approved for disability in Kentucky?

Generally, it takes about 3 to 5 months to get a decision. However, the exact time depends on how long it takes to get your medical records and any other evidence needed to make a decision. * How does Social Security make the decision? We send your application to a state agency that makes disability decisions.

How hard is it to get disability in Kentucky?

It can be fairly difficult to win and get disability benefits in Kentucky or any state. The process is equally hard regardless of state because SSDI and SSI are federal programs.

How long does it take to get SSI in Kentucky?

The SSI application process can take four months or longer. If you're approved, Social Security will pay you for benefits going all the way back to the date you applied. That's why it is important to apply as soon as you can.

What qualifies you for disability in KY?

Adult Definition - Social Security defines disability as the inability to work due to a physical or mental impairment(s) which has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Inability to work includes not only work performed previously, but any kind of work.

What conditions are automatically approved for disability?

What Conditions Automatically Qualify You for Disability?Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., bone, joint injuries, skeletal spine injuries)Special senses and speech (e.g., visual disorders, blindness)Respiratory disorders (e.g., chronic bronchitis, emphysema, asthma)More items...

How much does disability pay in KY?

Approximately 950,000 Kentucky residents receive some form of Social Security benefits. The average monthly benefits that a disabled worker in Kentucky receives are $805 for a single person and $1,200 for a disabled worker who is married and has 1 or 2 children.

What should you not say in a disability interview?

Making Statements That Can Hurt Your Claim – Unless you are specifically asked pertinent questions, do not talk about alcohol or drug use, criminal history, family members getting disability or unemployment, or similar topics. However, if you are asked directly about any of those topics, answer them truthfully.

What should you not tell a disability doctor?

For example, if you are being examined for a medical condition, you should not tell a doctor you have pain everywhere, or your level of pain is 10 out of 10 for everything if your daily activities are not consistent with this level of pain.

Who makes the final decision on Social Security disability?

While the DDS office reviews applications and makes recommendations to the SSA, it is the SSA which makes the final decision to accept or reject claims for disability benefits.

Is it hard to get on disability?

These benefits are awarded to qualified individuals who are no longer able to work due to a disabling mental or physical condition. But unfortunately, obtaining SSDI benefits is not easy. In fact, it's rather difficult. Approximately 70% of initial SSDI claims are denied every year.

What are 4 hidden disabilities?

The four most common types of hidden disabilities are:Autoimmune Diseases. In most people, the body's immune system protects them from invaders like bacteria and viruses. ... Mental Health Conditions. ... Neurological Disorders. ... Chronic Pain and Fatigue Disorders.

What are the 3 most common physical disabilities?

Here are three of the most common physical disabilities we see.Arthritis and Other Musculoskeletal Disorders. According to the Mayo Clinic, arthritis is inflammation and tenderness in one or more joints. ... Cerebral Palsy. ... Spinal Cord Injuries.

How hard is it to draw disability?

But unfortunately, obtaining SSDI benefits is not easy. In fact, it's rather difficult. Approximately 70% of initial SSDI claims are denied every year. In other words, less than one-third of initial claims are approved.

Can you work while on disability in Kentucky?

Yes, you can (in Kentucky or any state as SSDI and SSI are federal) as long as your gross monthly earnings do not go over the limit for individuals who are either receiving disability benefits, or in the process of applying for disability benefits.

How do I start disability in KY?

You can apply for Disability benefits online, or if you are unable to complete the application online, you can apply by calling our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Our representatives can make an appointment for you to apply.

Does Kentucky have state disability?

Kentucky is not one of the five states that has a temporary disability program, so most people in the state have to rely on their employer's policy or their own insurance coverage.

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Getting Approved For Disability Benefits

While there may not be a concrete answer as to how long it will take for a Social Security disability approval, there are ways to possibly speed up...

What is the purpose of a disability interview?

The purpose of this interview is to learn about the claimant's medical treatment sources and past work history. This information will form the basis for whatever decision is made.

What happens if an appeal is not submitted?

When appeals are not submitted in a timely fashion, a claimant may be required to start over with a new claim, losing processing time and, potentially, disability back pay. The qualifications for disability under the reconsideration process are the same.

Can a claim be denied by Social Security?

Their claim, in fact, may be denied by the Social Security office before it is even assigned to a disability examiner. As stated, the majority of claims are denied at the application for disability level. However, the second appeal level, the Social Security hearing, affords the majority of claimants a chance to win their benefits.

Do you need to provide a description of your past work for Social Security?

However, this information is obtained solely from the person filing for disability; therefore, individuals pursuing disability benefits should provide very accurate descriptions of their past work so that Social Security will not assume that the claimant has higher skills than they actually possess.

How long does it take to get SSDI?

Even in the best-case scenario when there are no issues that hold up an approved application, it will take at least six months to receive SSDI benefits.

How long do you have to be on disability to get Medicare?

If you receive disability benefits for two years , you then become eligible for Medicare coverage. The SSA will send you this information automatically once you qualify. Individuals who suffer from the most severe conditions, such as those requiring kidney dialysis, may qualify for Medicare coverage immediately.

How to apply for disability benefits over the phone?

You can apply over the phone by calling the SSA office at (800) 772-1213. You can also visit your local Social Security office to apply for Social Security Disability benefits. It is important that you call first to make an appointment.

What happens if you are denied Social Security?

Additionally, if you are denied, you may have a long appeals process. Quite simply, the sooner you apply, the sooner you could receive the benefits you need. You can also know what Government shutdown means for your social security disability benefits. Get a Free Consultation: 877-809-5352 Contact Us Online.

Can I appeal my SSDI claim?

Too many people do not appeal after their SSDI claim is denied. They either give up on the process or they file a brand-new application, which is a mistake. Appeals have the best chance of winning, and if you give up on the process or file a brand-new application, it will waste valuable time.

Can you get SSDI if you are disabled?

When a person is injured or ill and cannot work for an extended period of time, he or she may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. To receive SSDI benefits, you must show that you are disabled.

Can I get SSDI if I can't work?

Social Security also only provides benefits for those suffering from a total disability. If you have a partial disability, you will not qualify for SSDI.

How many steps do you have to take to appeal a disability claim?

Most claimants have to appeal their initial denials, especially if they don’t have a lawyer handling their cases. Appealed disability claims have four steps before you should attempt to reapply for benefits. The SSA may approve your claim at any point in this process: Reconsideration.

How long does it take to appeal an SSD claim?

The SSD application process doesn’t end if your first claim’s denied. Instead, you have 60 days from the day your denial letter arrives to file an appeal. However, where you live largely determines how long you’ll wait for an appeals hearing. See average appeals hearing wait times in your state or region here. Currently, the national average wait time for an appeals hearing is 11.8 months. In other words, you’ll wait at least 1.5 years from the date you apply if you win SSD benefits on appeal.

How to appeal a disability claim?

Appealed disability claims have four steps before you should attempt to reapply for benefits. The SSA may approve your claim at any point in this process: 1 Reconsideration 2 A hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) 3 An appeals council review 4 Federal court

What information should I include in my disability application?

You should also provide names of all doctors who treat you, facility addresses (including hospitals, doctor’s offices and anywhere else you go for treatment) and your appointment dates. Offering all necessary information from the start saves the disability examiner from having to track it down later. In fact, those steps are often most responsible for slowing down the entire process.

What is the first step in the long claims process?

According to Tim Moore, a former disability examiner for the SSA, the first step in the long claims approval process is to send your Social Security disability benefits application to a state disability agency, which is also called Disability Determination Services (DDS).

How to get approved for disability?

While there may not be a concrete answer as to how long it takes for Social Security disability approval, there are ways to possibly speed up the process. 1. Consult a Lawyer. An attorney or advocate who specializes in Social Security disability cases knows exactly what you need in terms of documentation, ...

Can I get SSI faster in Ohio?

Some people may think they could receive benefits faster if they apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), but the Ohio Bar says the “laws governing who medically qualify are the same” for both programs. According to the Federal Times, the issue may worsen as the number of SSA employees continues to decline.

What to do if your disability application is denied?

If your initial application got denied, you have the right to request a disability hearing. To skip the wait for the hearing, your lawyer can file for an on-the-record (ORD) decision. To help you get approval at this stage, your lawyer can: help you gather substantial medical evidence proving the extent of your disability.

How many people get legal assistance without a lawyer?

Surveys also show that 60% of those who had legal assistance was approved for benefits. While only 34% of claimants got approved without a lawyer. These statistics are backed by government data which shows that applicants represented by lawyers are 2.9 times more likely to get benefits.

What factors affect the turnaround time for disability?

Some factors that can affect the turnaround time include: whether you got approved at the initial application stage. the availability of your medical records. your medical condition. the state you live in. A disability lawyer knows what the SSA wants to see and hear.

How long does disability last?

Adult Definition - Social Security defines disability as the inability to work due to a physical or mental impairment (s) which has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Inability to work includes not only work performed previously, but any kind of work.

What is the definition of inability to work?

Inability to work includes not only work performed previously, but any kind of work. Child Definition - Social Security defines a child as disabled who has physical or mental impairment (s) so severe that it results in marked and severe functional limitations.

What is disability determination services?

Disability Determination Services makes disability determinations on behalf of the commissioner of Social Security for residents of Kentucky. The program uses federal regulations to determine disability for both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). The program also adheres to federal regulations for performance accuracy and processing time standards.

Why is it important to process disability claims electronically?

Some benefits of processing claims electronically include: Disability decisions are processed in a more timely manner. More cost effective processing enables more than one individual in the determination process to simultaneously view and work a case.

What is SSI for blind people?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monetary and medical benefits to adults and children who are blind or disabled and who have also met the non-disability income and resources requirements.

What is the role of a national leader in providing caring, compassionate and legally sound disability services?

To be recognized as a national leader in providing caring, compassionate and legally sound disability services by: Recruiting, empowering and retaining a highly skilled and diverse workforce. Providing an environment in which employees are recognized as individuals and valued for their contributions.

Does Social Security pay for disability?

Each program has its own requirements for determining disability. For example, some programs may pay for partial or short-term disability. Social Security does not .

First-Round Approvals

The fastest way for you to start receiving disability benefits is to get your initial claim approved on the first round of review. When this happens, you do not have to wait for an appeal, which can take years.

Reconsideration Approvals

Most people receive denials in the first round of review and the next step, or the first appeal, is called Reconsideration. At this stage, you can request an on the record (OTR) decision, but only with the help of an experienced Social Security Disability attorney, do you realistically have a chance of getting approved at this level.

ALJ Hearing Approvals

If you are denied at the Reconsideration level, your case will proceed to a hearing in front of the ALJ. The average waiting time for a hearing is currently in in the 15 – 20 month range from the time the Request for Hearing is filed with the SSA.

How long will Social Security Disability last in 2021?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a government-run program that replaces part of your income if you meet its requirements and your disability keeps you from working for at least 12 months.

What is the SSDI rate in Nebraska?

This state has an SSDI approval rate of 59.9% in 2020, jumping up drastically from just 49.1% in 2019. Nebraska is the fifth-best state for social security disability approval in both 2020 and 2019. This state has an SSDI approval rate of 57.4% in 2020 and an approval rate of 55.8% in 2019.

What is the average number of people applying for SSDI in 2020?

The national average of people applying for social security disability insurance (SSDI) claims is only 45.22% in 2020 (excluding December), higher than 44.18% in 2019. The SSDI approval rate increased every year since a low of 39.28% in 2015.

What is the average SSDI benefit in Mississippi?

The average monthly benefit for SSDI beneficiaries is $1,307. Mississippi. Mississippi is the third-hardest state to get approved for social security disability.

What is the average monthly benefit for SSDI?

The average monthly benefit for SSDI beneficiaries is $1,201. Texas. Texas is the fourth-hardest state to get approved for social security disability. This state has an SSDI approval rate of 39.0% in 2020, up from 37.7% in 2019. The average monthly benefit for SSDI beneficiaries is $1,241.

Why Hire a Lawyer to Get Disability?

Your attorney can ensure that you follow the standard required to get your claim legally. When you follow the normal procedure, you will never make mistakes that may eliminate your chances of getting the disability claim. In short, your lawyer will help you avoid the pitfalls which in turn can fasten your case.

How Long Does It Take Get Disability With A Lawyer?

The waiting time for hearing on Disability cases are all back to back with each other especially around the US, Washington, Maryland, Northern Virginia, and DC areas. This is due to many reasons like;

Processes for Getting Disability

The first process is the initial claim or the application for the disability level. At this level, it can take you a minimum of 100 days for your initial claim to get a decision. Majority of the initial claims are rejected by the state’s disability examiners of course.