When a person is unfortunate enough to have suffered a serious medical condition or injury, they may lose the ability to work and support themselves. If you have found yourself in this situation, it is important for you to understand the various options that are available to you. In particular, disability benefits may prove to be the source of support that you are needing, but if you are inexperienced with this program, you may need the following questions answered.
What Should You Expect During Your Disability Hearing?
Before you are granted disability benefits, it will be necessary for you to go through a hearing. This hearing is designed to allow the courts to accurately determine whether your disability qualifies for these benefits. During this process, you will likely be required to meet with several different doctors to have the full extent of your disability evaluated. In addition to undergoing these examinations, your medical record will also be evaluated.
Unfortunately, it is possible for your claim to be denied at the end of this process. When this happens, it can seem extremely unfair, but you should know that it is possible for you to appeal this ruling. During the appeal, you will likely be able to request new physicians and you will be given the chance to submit additional evidence for your case. Due to the length involved to file an appeal, you may be best served by ensuring that you retain the services of an experienced disability lawyer from a firm like Waycaster & Allred, as they will be able to provide you with the guidance needed to help you navigate the complicated appeal process.
What If Your Disability Payments Are Not Enough?
While disability benefits can provide you with a much-needed source of income, it is an unfortunate fact that these benefits can be capped at relatively low levels. As a result, you may feel like you are needing a supplemental source of income. Fortunately, disability often allows individuals to work a limited amount each month. However, if you exceed this amount, you may find that your benefits are revoked, and as a result, you should consult with your attorney to make sure that you stay under this amount.
Filing for disability benefits can be the only option available when you find yourself physically unable to work. However, these benefits can be difficult to understand if you have limited experience with them. By knowing what to expect from the process of filing for disability as well as the fact that you may be able to perform limited amounts of work, you will be better able to make informed choices when it comes to disability benefits.
