When Is The Right Time To Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits?

The short answer to this question is simple: as soon as you possibly can.

Here’s the slightly longer answer:

Due to the extremely large backlog of disability claims and the complexity of the claims process, it is best to get your application for benefits in just as soon as you know you need them. Two out of three claims are denied during the initial screening stage, and fighting a denied claim can take months or even years. The sad truth is that you might be waiting a while to get the support you are owed, so the sooner you start, the sooner your benefits will arrive.

When to Get Started

You should begin working on your Social Security disability claim as soon as you:

Know that you have a serious disability that will affect you for more than a year or that is fatal.
Know that this disability will affect your ability to work and earn a living.
Are familiar with the claims process and know how to avoid the common mistakes of filing a claim.

While there is a six month waiting period before Social Security disability benefits begin, you do not need to wait six months to apply for benefits.

How to Get Started

Before you file a Social Security disability application, it is important to take the time to file the application correctly. This may include learning about the process in our FREE book Social Security Disability: What You Need to Know, collecting medical evidence, and talking directly with an experienced Social Security disability lawyer. Our law firm has more board certified Social Security disability lawyers than any law firm in the United States. Yet, hiring us won’t cost you any more than hiring a non-attorney advocate. Call us today and schedule a meeting to learn more about your rights and about how to get the Social Security disability benefits you deserve.