Miller Disability Law, P.C.

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Do I Need To Be Disabled For A Year To Apply?

Published by Kenneth A. Miller

Social Security Disability benefits are more complex than meets the eye, we find that there are a lot of common misconceptions surrounding the qualifications to be approved for disability benefits. As a disability lawyer in Knox County, we are often asked if an applicant needs to be disabled for a complete calendar year before they apply for disability benefits. Additionally, some clients believe that they need to wait until they have been disabled for an entire calendar year before applying. This is false.

If you believe that your disability will last longer than a year, apply for benefits as soon as you become disabled. Processing your application can take around three to six months or longer. If your application is approved, you will be paid your first Social Security benefits for the sixth month after your disability began. There is a six-month waiting period after you become disabled for which you can receive payment. For example, if your state agency decides that you become disabled on February 15, you will be awarded your first disability payment in the month of August. You will receive the payment the following month, September. Talk with a disability lawyer in Knox County as soon as you become disabled to get started with the application process.

If you have any questions regarding when you should apply for Social Security Disability benefits contact a disability lawyer in Knox County at (865) 637-0515. Here at Kenneth Miller & Associates, we offer free consultations. With long delays and daunting forms, applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be overwhelming. An experienced disability lawyer in Knox County can make all the difference.

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