| If you have a physical ailment or mental disorder, did | | | | states and the federal governments have recognized |
| you know you can apply for the Social Security | | | | this. If you are eligible for SSI, you are usually |
| Disability program? This program is designed by the | | | | immediately eligible for benefits. |
| federal government to give monetary assistance to | | | | How do you apply? |
| those who cannot work, who need monthly | | | | You apply with the Social Security Administration. The |
| assistance, and who cannot afford medical coverage | | | | number is 1-800-772-1213, or you can go online to or |
| on their own. | | | | even apply in person at the local office in your city. |
| What disabilities qualify for SS disability? | | | | You will be asked basic questions on why you need |
| There are many disabilities that lead to social security | | | | help; if needed, you can go with a friend or family |
| income (SSI). What are they? They're based upon | | | | member to help you through the process. Even better, |
| government rules. According to the government, you | | | | since this could dramatically change your life, you could |
| have the "inability to engage in any substantial gainful | | | | get counsel and help from a disability lawyer. |
| activity by reason of any medically determinable | | | | Who do you hire? |
| physical or mental impairment which can be expected | | | | If you want to apply for disability, there is a chance you |
| to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to | | | | will be rejected. This is not to scare you, but it does |
| last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months." | | | | happen. Perhaps the government does mean believe |
| Okay, what does that really mean? | | | | you are incapable of work. For some with clear |
| You cannot work because of a physical or mental | | | | disabilities, there is no problem. For others, who perhaps |
| problem. For example, if you cannot walk or be active | | | | have less noticeable or testable handicaps such as a |
| enough to work because of a physical ailment, you | | | | mental disorder, you may need legal counsel. A |
| would be eligible. If you have a mental problem, for | | | | disability lawyer can help you successfully apply for |
| example schizophrenia, you also have the right to | | | | SSI. If you have trouble proving your disability, a lawyer |
| apply. There are countless options, but the main | | | | can help. |
| protocol is that you are physically or mentally unable to | | | | How much can you get? |
| work, and need monetary help to live on. | | | | The amount you get on paper isn't very much and |
| Will you be covered for medical? | | | | varies from person to person. However, if you include |
| Most states include Medicaid or Medicare programs | | | | the benefits of Medicaid or Medicare, apply for |
| with SSI. These are needed, because if you are on | | | | disability is truly an important move. For instance, you |
| medications and have no job, the prices could literally | | | | might get $700 per month, be eligible for subsidized |
| bankruptcy you. For example, you might have to take | | | | housing, and get free medical care. |
| medicine for a heart condition which might cost you | | | | If you feel you cannot work and want financial help, a |
| thousands a year; without some form of benefit | | | | disability lawyer can walk you through the process of |
| program and lacking a large income, it would be nearly | | | | finding if your eligible, help you successfully file with |
| impossible to keep up. The good news is that both | | | | disability benefits, and get a fresh start in life. |