How to File a Social Security Disability Claim in West Virginia
If you have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes during your employment, you may be eligible to receive benefits in the event that you become disabled and unable to work. While the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides forms and instructions that you can complete on your own to apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you need to understand that the rejection rate of initial applications is approximately 65 percent.
Your chances of initial acceptance can improve with the assistance of an experienced SSD attorney. The attorneys at Cyrus & Adkins have over 60 years of combined experience helping West Virginia clients through the complex application and appeals process for Social Security Disability benefits.
Overview of the claims process
You must follow a very specific process to apply for SSD benefits, as follows:
- Step 1—Preparing for the application: To file for a Social Security Disability benefit, you must begin by collecting the information and documents required by the SSA. This includes your social security number, direct deposit information, the most recent W2 or other approved tax document, a birth certificate, and military discharge papers, if applicable. You also need to provide specific documents pertaining to your illness or injury.
- Step 2—Filing the application: The next step is to complete a detailed Disability Benefit Application and Adult Disability Report, following all instructions to ensure accuracy and completeness, and submit all documents to your local Social Security office.
- Step 3—Submit a medical release form: The SSA asks you to provide a form that allows them to obtain information from your doctors.
- Step 4—Wait for a decision: Your claim undergoes a thorough investigation by the SSA before they send a decision to you. If the SSA approves your application, they pay your first benefit for the sixth full month following the date your disability began, as determined by the SSA. If the SSA denies your application, their notification includes the reasons for rejection, providing you with information you can use to begin a multi-level appeals process.
