Why Should I Apply Now For SSI?

White Male Attorney On Phone With Client At Desk When your medical conditions prevent you from being able to work, you should consider applying for SSI right away if you believe you qualify for Supplemental Security Income.

Why Apply for SSI Now – Key Takeaways
✓ Medical Records Have Limits: Facilities only keep records for a certain number of years (as few as three in some states), so waiting too long could mean critical documentation is no longer available to prove your disability.
✓ Doctors Move On: A supportive physician who understands your conditions might retire or relocate before you get the chance to obtain their statements, which can significantly strengthen your case.
✓ The Process Takes Time: The appeals process can stretch two to three years or longer, so the sooner you start, the sooner you may receive the benefits you deserve.

There are many reasons to apply as soon as you are unable to work, especially given current processing delays at the Social Security Administration, which include the following:

Medical Records Are Vital For Your Claim

Medical documentation of your conditions is vital in a disability claim. As such, you’ll want to start as soon as possible to ensure you have documentation of these conditions. While the time records are kept varies from state to state, a medical treatment facility must keep medical records for at least ten years in New Mexico. The records of minors must be kept until they are 21 years old. Some states maintain their records for as little as three years. If you were to apply after too much time has passed since your disability began, records may no longer be available, and it may be more challenging to prove you were or are currently disabled. This is especially important for records regarding accidents, diagnoses, or other factors that may have caused your inability to work.

Detailed Notes And Documents Of Physicians You Have Seen

You may have a doctor who understands your disabling conditions and would be supportive of your application for disability. If you were to wait too long to apply, these doctors might move or retire before you are able to get statements from them regarding your disabling conditions. These statements can significantly help your case, so if you believe your doctor would be supportive, starting while that doctor is still practicing would be ideal.

It Can Be a Lengthy Process

While SSI has no “expiration date,” the Social Security Disability appeals process can take two to three years or longer until there is sufficient proof that your medical and mental conditions prevent you from working. Some people may get approved on their first application, but often, you may need to appeal a denial on your claim multiple times before you can prove you cannot work. The quicker you begin the process, the quicker you may be approved for the benefits you deserve.

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