When you are no longer able to work at your job, consider filing for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. This government program covers individuals who are suffering from one or more medical or mental health conditions. When you file, the below issues deserve extra attention.

Working Enough

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides benefits for those who have worked long enough and made enough money. You can check on your benefits by calling or visiting the SSA. You can also create and access your SSA account online. Since this issue is among the first things the SSA verifies when you apply for benefits, you can save yourself some time by checking on it ahead of time.

If you find mistakes with your earnings records, you can go through the process to correct them. The amount you have paid into the system affects how much money you are paid each month once your benefits are approved.

Impairment Check

The SSA maintains a list of covered impairments known as the blue book. This list can be viewed online or at your local SSA office. If an impairment is not listed, you may still qualify for benefits. However, you must use extra care when completing your application and then you might just expect to be turned down. After being turned down you can ask for an appeal and that is when you can explain why you need benefits for a condition that is not specifically listed.

Don't Give Up

Many SSDI applicants are denied for a variety of reasons. In many cases, they failed to fill out their application accurately or completely. Many others have medical conditions that don't fit into the list of impairments. The reason why you were denied is important but knowing how to address it is another matter. For that, many claimants turn to a Social Security lawyer.

Social Security lawyers don't work directly for the SSA. However, they are approved by the SSA to help SSDI claimants with their cases. Since each claimant is allowed to present their case at an appeal hearing, you will need help. These lawyers can help you identify why you were denied and get things straightened out at the appeal hearing.

You won't be charged any money for getting started on your case. Social Security lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means you only owe them legal fees if you win your case and are awarded back pay. Then, they are paid a percentage of that. If you don't win, you don't have to pay anything.

Learn more by speaking with a Social Security firm like Gordon & Pont.