Social Security Disability FAQ






What is Social Security Disability?

Social Security Disability is a government run program that provides payment and benefits to people suffering from a physical or mental impairment that prevents them from obtaining gainful employment. You must have been a working citizen and have paid into social security tax for a specific period of time prior to becoming disabled, to receive benefits. For those who have not paid into social security tax, there are additional programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and other government programs that can assist you in your time of disability. Contact Brumbaugh, Mu & King, P.A. today to speak to one of our experienced social security disability attorneys and learn your disability program options!





When should I apply for social security disability benefits?

You are able to apply for social security disability on the first day of your disability. If you are currently injured and believe that you will be unable to work for one year or more, then you should begin the application process for social security disability immediately. If you are unsure how to apply, a hospital staff member may be able to assist you with getting in contact with the Social Security Administration or you can call our firm Toll-Free at (800) 635-1683 for information. You can also visit our Social Security Disability page for helpful filing directions and tips. 





What is the benefit of having a social security disability lawyer?

Social security disability claims can take a considerable amount of time and dedication to win. Hiring a social security lawyer can make a huge difference to the speed of your claim. People who hire an experienced social security disability attorney to handle their claim tend to receive higher settlements and raise their chances for winning their social security disability benefits. 





What is the Social Security Administration definition of disability?

According to the Social Security Administration, a person who is unable to engage in any substantial gainful employment or activity because of their mentally and/or physically impairment, for a period of no less than 12 months, is disabled.





Do I have to be permanently disabled to receive social security disability benefits?

No. So long as you have been disabled or expect to be disabled for at least a year or more, you may collect social security disability benefits.





How do I apply for social security disability benefits?

You can apply for Social Security Disability benefits through the local Social Security Administration office or at their national toll-free number (800-772-1213).

You will need the following documents when applying for Social Security Disability:
  • An original or certified copy of your birth certificate.
  • Social Security numbers of all persons applying for benefits (your spouse and children).
  • Dates of any prior marriages if your spouse is applying for benefits.
  • Documentation of earnings for the past 12 months (a copy of your W-2, federal tax return, last pay stub, or a statement from your employer).
  • Names, addresses, and phone numbers of doctors, hospitals or clinics that have treated you.
  • Medical records and dates of treatment of doctors, hospitals or clinics.
  • A list of all medications you are currently taking.

Brumbaugh, Mu & King, P.A. can assist you with filing the appropriate documentation with the Social Security Administration.

It is not necessary to have an attorney when filing for Social Security Disability benefits but it is recommended. The Social Security Administration's own statistics show that people who have legal representation are more likely to win their social security disability benefits.





What can I do if I am denied social security disability benefits?

If you have filed for Social Security Disability benefits and been denied, then we can assist you with filing a request for reconsideration within 60 days of your denial of benefits. Unfortunately, many applicants do get denied on their first request for Social Security Disability benefits. Do not let this discourage you. If Social Security should deny the request for reconsideration, you have 60 days to file a request for a hearing at your local Social Security office. Social security disability claims require a lot of paperwork and follow strict time lines.

It is wise and beneficial to the outcome of your case, to obtain representation from an experienced social security disability lawyer. Brumbaugh, Mu & King, P.A. is available to answer your social security questions, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on our Toll-Free number (800) 635-1683! Contact Us Today!





Can I receive workers' compensation and social security disability benefits at the same time?

Yes, you can collect both workers' compensation and social security disability benefits at the same time. In some states there is an offset that will reduce your social security disability benefits, though you will still receive some, while you are receiving both workers' compensation and social security disability payments. And in a few states, the offset works the opposite way and workers' compensation benefits are reduced because of social security disability benefits.

Your injury attorney with Brumbaugh, Mu & King, P.A. will advise you of the most appropriate course to take for receiving the maximum benefits allowed to you and your injury claim. You case manager can assist you with filing any social security disability paperwork needed to try and avoid any gaps in compensation.





Will I receive Medicare if approved for social security disability benefits?

You will receive Medicare if you have been approved for any kind of social security disability benefits, other than Supplemental Security Income (SSI), for two years or more. In most cases, if you have been approved for SSI then you will receive Medicaid. However, it is possible to receive both Medicare and Medicaid if you are entitled to SSI and some other type of social security disability benefit.


If you or a loved one is thinking about filing or have filed for Social Security Disability benefits, then we urge
you to call one of our North Carolina Social Security Disability Attorneys today at (800) 635-1683!

We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer all of your legal questions!


Visit our Social Security Disability page for more information!