SSD 101: 8 Frequently Asked Questions

Thanks for reading out SSD 101 series! Here we go through some of the basics regarding social security disability and the rights you may deserve. SSD has a lot of specific deadlines and it's always recommended you speak with an attorney or advocate to assist with your case.

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding SSD:

Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long until I get a decision from my decision application?
        a. 4-6 months
2. How long does the appeal process take?
        a. 12-18 months to get a hearing and then we wait for a decision.
3. How long do I have to wait to get a decision from the judge?
        a. It’s supposed to be 30-60 days to get the decision, but depending on the
            judge it can take more than a year.
4. How is the award paid?
        a. If you are owed past due benefits you will receive them in one check for
            the past due benefits. You will continue to receive one check a month                 for the full amount of your benefits depending on the schedule SSA                     gives you.
5. How long from the notice of decision to payment of the award?
         a. Once you receive a notice of decision we need to wait for the notice of
             award. This document will give an explanation of you past due benefits              (if any), monthly benefits, attorney’s fees and your pay schedule. This                could take up to 60 days. You should begin getting payments shortly                  after you receive a notice of award.
6. What is substantial gainful activity?
         a. Work is “substantial” if it involves doing significant physical or mental
              activities or a combination of both. If you earn more than $1,090 and                 are doing productive work, you are engaging in substantial gainful                       activity. You would not be eligible for disability benefits.
7. Is this permanent?
         a. The government is scrutinizing disability benefits. They might                               reexamine you. For this reason we recommend that you continue to go               to the doctor even if your claim is approved.
8. Can I expedite my claim due to financial distress?
         a. Yes, in order to substantiate a claim of financial distress we must                          present evidence such as: eviction notice, termination of utilities,                        notice of foreclosure or letter from your landlord stating that you are                  behind on your payments and will be asked to vacate the premises.

**This information is based on New York State. Each state may be different. This blog post is for informational purposes. Your specific circumstances may vary from the information provided. Every case is different. Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes. The contents contained in this post do not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please contact us before sending confidential or time-sensitive material**