Though it's hard to give an exact figure of how long it takes to get disability benefits with a lawyer, having legal assistance can shorten the claims processing time from 2 years to at least 3 months.
The SSA, which makes decisions about eligibility for disability benefits, defines disability as the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity because of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
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.
You can apply for a Social Security disability claim in Oklahoma by paying a visit to any of the 18 local Social Security offices in the state. You can fill your disability service online or apply via phone call.
1. Arthritis. Arthritis and other musculoskeletal disabilities are the most commonly approved conditions for disability benefits. If you are unable to walk due to arthritis, or unable to perform dexterous movements like typing or writing, you will qualify.
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...
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.
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.
The amount of money you may earn while your application for benefits is pending is also adjusted year-to-year, with the 2021 maximum for SSDI recipients being $1,310 per month or $2,190 if you are legally blind.
Level I: Disability Application - An application for disability in Oklahoma will generally stand a 28-32 percent chance of being awarded. The high rate of denial generally requires most claimants to pursue appeals before meeting the requirements for disability under the SSD or SSI program.
The State of Oklahoma adds a small supplement to the federal SSI payment in some circumstances. In 2019, the federal government will pay up to $771 in SSI benefits, and you can also receive a state supplement of $42 if you live independently or with someone else (but not in a nursing home).
SSDI payments range on average between $800 and $1,800 per month. The maximum benefit you could receive in 2020 is $3,011 per month. The SSA has an online benefits calculator that you can use to obtain an estimate of your monthly benefits.