How Long Does It Take to Get Social Security Disability in LA?
When you are out of work because of a disability, your primary concern is ensuring your family remains financially secure. Social Security disability payments are not automatic; you need to apply to get these benefits.
If you are disabled and need to file for Social Security disability payments, your best option is to seek assistance from Leavitt & Meunier Law LLC in Metairie, Louisiana. Our decades of experience can help you file an application in a timely manner with the information necessary to ensure there are no unnecessary delays.
Applying for Disability
When you have been diagnosed with a condition or injury that will qualify you for disability, you will have to gather specific information to submit your application. Keep in mind that while there is a five-month delay in eligibility, you do not have to wait to apply. Immediately upon being diagnosed with a condition that may qualify you for disability payments, you can start the application process.
In addition to the application, the following documentation will help speed up your application:
Treating physicians
A list of dates of treatment, physician's names, and contact information should be provided along with your application.
Medical records
If you submit your medical records with your application, it will speed up the process of getting disability payments. Otherwise, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will have to contact each provider to obtain your records.
Explanation letters
Doctors who are treating you for a disability should provide you with a letter that explains your condition as well as the reasons why you will be prevented from working with that condition.
Gathering this information prior to submitting your application can help speed up the process. While it can still take some time for the approval process, and you may be asked to provide additional information, the more information you can provide with your application, the better.
Keep in mind that the categories that qualify for disability payments are broad. The best way to determine exactly what information should be included with your application is to work with an experienced disability payments lawyer at Leavitt & Meunier Law, LLC.
What can Delay Receiving Disability Benefits?
In general, a claim may be processed in as little as 90 days. However, some of the reasons for further delay may include:
Claims Denial
There may be an outright denial of your claim, which may require you to file an appeal.
Medical Records
One reason for delays in incomplete medical records. This is why we generally recommend submitting these records with your initial application.
Lack of evidence
Despite providing medical records, SSA may deny a claim based on lack of evidence. You may need to schedule an appointment with a doctor approved by SSA, which could delay your claim further.
Keep in mind that the SSA reviews applications for disability benefits and forwards that information to a state agency. The number of applications received by the state could further delay disability payments.
At Leavitt & Meunier Law, LLC, we are committed to helping residents in Louisiana ensure they have prepared and submitted a comprehensive application packet to help the process go more smoothly.
Is there a Way to Speed up the Disability Benefits Process?
SSA has two fast-track programs. These programs are Quick Disability Determinations (QDD) and Compassionate Allowances (CAL). QDD is done by a computer program for applicants with specific disorders for whom there is sufficient data to help them arrive at a decision. CAL is used for certain cancers and adult brain disorders where it is clear the applicant is not going to recover from their illness or injury.
Leavitt & Meunier Law LLC is Here to Help
We know that if you have been told that you are unable to return to work, you are under a great deal of stress. Being worried about the financial health of your family merely adds to that stress.
Our team at Leavitt & Meunier Law LLC has years of experience helping Louisiana residents who are applying for disability benefits. Call our Metairie office today or use our online contact form and reach out to us to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you get your disability payments in a timely manner.