A growing number of people are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits this year and experiencing difficulties. As a result of more applications, the wait is getting longer for people with severe disabilities to receive the benefits to which they’re entitled.

A recent report of initial applications at state Disability Determination Services across the country showed an increase of more than 200,000 so far in 2009. Initial applications topped 1.9 million through May 2009, compared with 1.7 million in May 2008.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) also indicated that the average time to process initial disability claims will increase by 20%. The length of time is expected to grow from 129 days in 2009 to 156 days in 2010.

The increasing number of applications makes it even more critical for people to understand what they’re getting into when they apply for SSDI benefits. The Social Security disability application process can be lengthy, complex and confusing.

People are encouraged to make sure they qualify for SSDI benefits before they even submit their application. Allsup offers a free SSDI eligibility screening at www.allsup.com.

SSDI is a federally mandated insurance program overseen by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that operates separately from the retirement and SSI programs. SSDI provides monthly benefits to individuals who are under full retirement age (age 65 or older) and who can no longer work because of a disability (injury, illness or condition) that is expected to last for at least 12 months or is terminal. Individuals must have paid FICA taxes to be eligible.

Allsup Answers Common Questions About SSDI
Newcomers to the SSDI process often have questions about the process, the length of time involved and the option of choosing representation. Allsup provides answers to these questions.

How do I know if I’m eligible for SSDI benefits?
First, you must be insured. Generally, this means you have worked and paid into the program through payroll taxes (or FICA taxes) for five of the last 10 years. You also must have been disabled before you reach your full retirement age (65-67). In addition, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability – you must be unable to work because of a verifiable mental or physical impairment expected to last 12 months or longer, or result in death.

If you are uncertain whether you are eligible for SSDI benefits and should apply, Allsup offers a free, no-obligation Social Security disability evaluation.

When should I apply for SSDI benefits?
A common mistake people make is waiting too long to apply for Social Security disability benefits. If you have a severe or permanent disability that will keep you from working for 12 months or longer, or is terminal, then you should apply for SSDI benefits.

You do not need to wait a certain time period before applying. The SSDI process can take claims examiners several months just to review initial applications. In some cases, review of your SSDI application and appeals can take two or more years.  Because the Social Security disability application process takes time, it’s important that you begin sooner rather than later.

Why should I get a representative for SSDI benefits?
A representative like Allsup can help you find out if you are likely to qualify for SSDI benefits before you apply. In addition, you are more likely to get your SSDI benefits faster. Allsup is able to help more customers receive their SSDI awards with their initial applications (54% compared to the 35% national average). Avoid waiting in Social Security telephone and office lines. Your representative also assists with paper work, compiling medical documentation and work history. And when it comes to the cost, note that Allsup does not charge any fees unless your SSDI claim is awarded, and that fee is determined by the SSA.

In addition, Allsup provides representation through all stages of the application, denial and appeal process. Many people don’t know that they can have representation for their SSDI application from the beginning.

What should I do if I’ve already been denied benefits?
The Social Security Administration denies two-thirds of all initial applications. For thousands of people who have already attempted their SSDI application on their own, the denial is frustrating. But they still have the opportunity to obtain representation. If your SSDI application is at the hearing level, an experienced Allsup representative will help prepare you for and represent you at the hearing, no matter where you live. In addition, nearly 70% of Allsup customers whose cases reach the hearing level do not even have to attend a hearing because Allsup requests on-the-record decisions and presents well-developed claim files prior to the hearings.

Find more information and answers to other frequently asked questions about Social Security disability on Allsup.com.