A Family Firm Dedicated To You

How the SSA handles benefit applications

Missouri residents may need to meet strict criteria to obtain social security disability benefits. First, that person must have a condition that will keep him or her out of work for at least a year. Additionally, that person must have a physical or mental condition that prevents him or her from making a gainful living. Although those criteria may not appear strict, many initial applications are denied.

Assuming that a person does receive benefits on appeal, that process can take many months or years to complete. Part of the reason why the criteria for benefit eligibility are so strict is because it offers long-term protection that may not be available through any other means. It is possible that those who are seeking long-term benefits may have other alternatives to make ends meet in the near-term. Those alternatives may include short-term disability benefits for those experiencing a partial disability.

It could also mean that an individual has a savings account, an investment portfolio or other funds that he or she could fall back on if necessary. Of course, it is also possible that an individual has no such financial protection, which may present an issue that the Social Security Administration (SSA) may not be in a position to address. In fact, even those who work for the SSA do not have access to short-term benefits.

Those who have a significant disability may wish to apply for SSD benefits. Doing so may make it possible to receive money to pay bills or handle the cost of the health care needs. If a person has had his or her application for benefits denied, it may be worthwhile to talk with an attorney. An attorney may be able to review an application and take steps to get it approved.