If you are disabled and plan to file a claim with Social Security to obtain money you feel you have a right to receiving, you may want to think about hiring a lawyer to help you with the process. Most people will wait until after they have received a rejection notice to hire a lawyer, but if you are afraid of getting a rejection you can hire one in advance in order to help you expedite your case. Here are some tips in some things you should avoid when filing for Social Security disability money.
Unemployment Benefits
There is conflicting information on if should you file for Social Security disability benefits if you are currently collecting unemployment money. Unemployment says that you are able to work if a job comes your way and the money you are collecting is enough to get you by until you find that job.
Social Security disability benefits are filed for when you are claiming that you are or will be unable to perform your job tasks for at least twelve months. Many attorneys will advise against filing for Social Security benefits if you are currently collecting unemployment. You may end up being denied benefits. You should stop unemployment if you feel you cannot work and are filing for Social Security.
Staying On The Job
In order to receive Social Security benefits, you must not be able to perform your job as you were before your disability. If you stay on the job and intend on filing for Social Security, you will be denied. If you are self-employed, there are different rules to be followed.
It is best to file for Social Security benefits a few months after you have left your job. If you are still working, you will be questions as to how many hours and how much pay you are receiving and there is a limit to the amount you will be allowed to bring home to collect benefits. Rather than risk it, quit the job before filing.
Ditching The Doctor
Your condition should be medically documented in order for Social Security to give you benefits for your disability. If you do not see a doctor, Social Security will treat your case as if you are not as unable to work as you claim. You should see a medical doctor and follow through with any medications or procedures that they recommend in order to be able to collect benefits.
