Social Security Disability in Badger, AK
Are you worried that the government won’t recognize your eligibility for Social Security benefits?
According to GoodRx, around 85% of beneficiaries are injured workers. Despite having documentation, you can still have trouble getting this coverage from the government. Consequently, the most efficient way to remove the roadblock of red tape is to hire an attorney.
No matter why you need help with your application, you will find vital information in this article. Once you read it, we can even help you schedule a no-obligation consultation with a lawyer in Badger.
Social Security Disability in Badger, AK
If you believe you have eligibility for SSDI, you should complete an application for the Social Security Administration (SSA).
But what can you do if the SSA denies your application? Are you frustrated by the denial because you should meet the requirements? If so, you should consider a consultation with a Badger, AK Social Security attorney.
Who Is Eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance?
It is necessary to examine the eligibility criteria before applying for SSDI benefits in Badger, Alaska. The federal government will deny your application if you don’t meet these requirements.
Alaska Disability Determination Services reviews applications for the SSA. According to their website, an applicant from Badger needs the following to qualify as having a disability:
- Partial or total disability recognized for SSDI or SSI
- Documentation of your chronic injury or illness
- A doctor’s note that explains why they believe your condition will prevent you from working for one year or more
Work Credits
You likely spent a substantial amount of time working in Badger over the years. If so, that bodes well to fill the initial requirement.
You must work a certain number of years paying FICA taxes to qualify for Social Security. In particular, applicants need to earn enough work credits to get SSDI benefits.
Workers can receive up to four work credits every year. The number of these credits you need to qualify depends on the age you became disabled.
U.S. News reports the total FICA tax liability is $15.3% of your income. However, your employer in Badger splits this obligation with you. It is also worth noting anything you make above $160,200 is not subject to this levy.
Qualifying Medical Condition
Second, you must have a long-term, severe medical condition that SSA considers a total disability. Your issue has to interfere with your ability to perform your duties at work. Furthermore, a doctor should expect it to last one year or more.
The current list of qualifying medical conditions includes the following:
- Cancer
- Skin conditions
- Kidney disease
- Mental disorders
- Musculoskeletal problems
- Neurological conditions
- Respiratory illnesses
- Hematological disorders
- Immune system disorders
- Sense and speech issues
- Poor cardiovascular health
- Digestive tract disorders
- Various syndromes
Even if you have a medical condition that qualifies, there are other considerations. You may not have eligibility if you make too much money while working in Badger.
The SSA calls this a work credit requirement. For example, imagine that a disabled individual makes $1,260 per month while a blind applicant makes $2,100. According to the Social Security Administration, if you can perform substantial activities, that disqualifies you from receiving SSDI.
SSI vs. SSDI
If you do not meet the work credit requirement for SSDI, you could still have eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
SSI is a federal program that helps people with disabilities with little to no income that cannot receive SSDI. It provides monthly payments to help with life essentials like food, shelter, or clothing.
The Alaska Department of Health and Human Services supplements these payments. The amounts you can receive in Badger depend on the circumstances. For instance, these are the amounts provided for specific situations currently:
- $392 for individuals living independently or $528 for couples per month
- $100 for individuals in an assisted living home or $200 for couples per month
- $45 for individuals in a Medicaid facility or $90 for couples per month
How To Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits In Badger, Alaska
Applying for SSDI is a relatively straightforward process. But you must prepare. Otherwise, you can face unnecessary complications. Here is what you should know before you submit your application.
Step 1: Gather Appropriate Information
Gathering all relevant information is essential to the SSDI benefits application process. Here are the most common elements you need on hand when you start your application:
- Medications
- Medical conditions
- If applicable, the particular about your military service.
- Information about your education level and vocational training
- Employment information that goes back at least two years, including your wages
- Essential facts about your current or former spouse, including their Social Security numbers
- Details about your work history, when you had to stop working, and the job you held before becoming disabled
- Contact details for the doctors and other professionals that have given you treatment. You must include their names, addresses, and appointment dates.
- Names and birthdates of your children who are under the age of 18 or who became disabled before turning 22
- Any additional information you think might be relevant to your application.
Step 2: Apply Online
There are three options available to anyone who wants to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance:
- Online application
- Calling the Social Security office at 800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment
- Go to your local Badger, AK Social Security office without an appointment
You should only apply for disability insurance when you have sufficient medical records to prove eligibility. If you have not seen a doctor, visit them a few times and get their recommendation for SSDI before applying.
The Social Security Administration has a tool to find the nearest office you can visit. For Badger residents, there is a location in Fairbanks where you can apply in person.
Step 3. If Denied, Contact an Attorney
If you receive a denial for SSDI, the next step is to contact a Badger attorney to appeal the decision. Your lawyer will gather evidence to present a compelling appeal.
Work With an Experienced Local Lawyer In Badger, Alaska
Have you been denied Social Security Disability Insurance benefits in Badger? If you believe you are eligible, it is important to reach out to a lawyer. We can even help you connect with an attorney across Alaska state lines. With the help of an experienced attorney, you can appeal the decision and hopefully win your case so you can receive the benefits that you need.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
