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. There are many reasons to apply as soon as you are unable to work, 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 sometimes take years 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.