When it comes to Social Security Disability benefits, many disabled individuals in New Jersey and elsewhere fear that they may not qualify for these benefits. Even though an applicant might have been suffering from a serious disability for some time, making it impossible to keep a job, the application process can be complex. This often results in the denial of an applicant’s initial application. Even if reconsideration or appealing the decision is an option, an applicant must prepare his or herself for a lengthy battle to recover SSD benefits.
According to current reports, senators across the nation are urging that they provide no less than the President’s request for $12.5 billion for the SSA’s budget for the fiscal year of 2018. This could help reduce the SSDI’s appeals hearing backlog. Because there are current concerns about the backlog reaching its record high of 600 days, many senators are concerned about decreasing this waiting period.
In addition to the waiting time being a concern, there is also a concern that the appropriations bill might reduce the SSA’s budget by almost $460 million. Because adequate funding for the SSA is needed to provide financial support for current SSDI recipients and address the current backlog of disability appeals hearings, it is critical that the SSA receiving all of the funding it has requested. Numerous applicants with serious disorders are stuck waiting for a period of time that could be longer than they are given to live. Thus, it is imperative that steps are taken to reduce the length of time it takes to go through the appeals process.
Because many SSD applicants fear being denied and having to go through the appeals process, it is important that they fully understand how to make a complete and accurate application. Missing certain documents or not supplying all information could result in an individual with a qualifying disability being initially denied. Therefore, seeking legal advice could help streamline the process, ensuring that your application is completed entirely and properly.