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SOCIAL SECURITY DISABIILTY MYTHS

Here are a few of the MYTHS about Social Security disabiliy.

MYTH:  Social Security denies everyone the first time.

TRUTH:  About 70 percent of claims are denied at the application level (first stage).  These claims need to be appealed.

MYTH:  If denied the best thing is to file a new application.

TRUTH:  If denied it's best to appeal the denial and put the denial under review higher up.  More claims are won in the appeal process.

MYTH:  My doctor can sign me up for disability?

TRUTH:  Doctors cannot decide who gets a benefit.  They can only provide evidence that Social Security uses in making that decision.

MYTH:  Everyone is covered by Social Security disability insurance.

TRUTH:  Only persons who have worked long enough and recently enough are covered.  You need a certain number of work credits to have coverage.

MYTH:  You can apply for SSDI while you are still working.

TRUTH:  If you are working at a "substantial, gainful" job, you cannot apply for disability benefits.  A job is substantial and gainful  in 2020 if it pays at least $1,260 per month in wages or self-employment income.

MYTH:  A hearing only involves going before a judge and telling your story.

TRUTH:  A hearing involves presenting hard evidence that proves you meet the federal requirements for Social Security benefits.  You must prove that you meet the government's definition of "disability" as found in the Social Security Act and 20 CFR, Part 404, Subpart P. It is a lot more involved (and more difficult) than most people think.
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The Forsythe Firm
7027 Old Madison PIke - Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806
(256) 799-0297

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