Why You Shouldn’t Wait to File for Social Security Disability

It’s hard enough to deal with a long-term illness or disability. But when you add a complex court case that’s stacked against you on top of that? It’s more than anyone should have to handle alone!

With everything going on in the world right now, it might seem like a good idea to wait until things calm down to file for SSDI, but that’s not what is in your best interest.

In fact, we recommend you start right away. Today, if possible! Why the urgency? Keep reading to understand why you shouldn’t wait to file for Social Security Disability benefits.

Time Is of the Essence

When filing for SSDI, time is of the essence.

However, don’t just take our word for it! The Social Security Administration (SSA) also strongly urges applicants to file ASAP. You can start the claims process even if you don’t have all of the necessary documents right this second.

The reason the SSA recommends you start now, even before you have everything ready, is because the Social Security Disability process takes time. It can actually be months from when you file, to when you actually see your benefits. You can see why when you understand what goes into the SSDI process:

1. Determine if you qualify for SSDI benefits, and if you do, if your claim can be rushed.
2. Start your application with your local SSA field office.
3. Gather and send all the evidence you need to prove your claim, including proof of your medical
4. condition, work history, proof of citizenship, and more.
5. If your medical provider’s evidence isn’t enough, undergo a medical exam by an SSA doctor.
6. Wait for the SSA’s decision.

If approved, you can begin to receive your benefits. However, if you are denied (and many people are), the wait time extends even further. (In fact, the wait time to appeal a denial of SSDI benefits is more than a year! Unfortunately, it takes so long because the SSA lacks the budget and staff to get through each case quickly.)

In short, the sooner you file, the sooner you can get the benefits you need.

Don’t Leave Benefits on the Table

On top of the wait time, there is another very important reason you need to file now. Waiting to file your SSDI application may prevent you from collecting all your benefits.

The SSA pays SSDI benefits to approved applicants starting the date their claim was filed. On the one hand, this is obviously very good: while you don’t get benefits right away, you can eventually get paid back for the time you spent waiting. On the other hand, this rule means you can miss out on benefits. If you wait weeks, months, or even years after the onset of your illness or disability to file an SSDI claim, that is weeks, months, or years of benefits that you’ll lose!

By filing as soon as possible, you can claim all of the backpay and retroactive benefits you deserve.

Don’t Wait, We Can Help You Today

Waiting to file will only add to your stress and likely worsen your financial situation.

At Casper & Casper, we’re available to help you today. We can conduct a free consultation either over the phone or via video conference. During the consult, we’ll review your case, answer any questions, and let you know your options.

We Have the Experience

Casper & Casper has attorneys dedicated to the field of Social Security Disability. They have decades of experience and know the ins and outs of the application and appeals processes—which can improve your chances of SSDI approval!

Sadly, 70% of first-time social security disability applications are denied. However, having an experienced attorney at your side from day one can greatly reduce your chance of being denied.

When you need experienced attorneys you can trust, turn to Casper & Casper. No jingles, no gimmicks, no false promises… just hard work on your behalf.

Call us today at 800.784.2889 or fill out the contact form to schedule your free consultation.