Social Security Disability Insurance can help an individual who has a medical issue or some other condition that limits his or her ability to work. However, West Virginia residents may find that applying for such benefits is a frustrating process. To make the process easier, applicants should first determine if they are eligible for benefits. Individuals could be entitled to benefits even if they are younger than the retirement age.
However, a successful applicant must have paid FICA taxes for at least five of the last 10 years. If an individual does file for benefits, it can take up to six months for an initial application to be reviewed. Cases can take up to 800 days to resolve if an initial application and initial appeal are denied. To increase the odds that a case is resolved in a timely manner and in an applicant’s favor, it may be worthwhile to seek help quickly.
Ideally, those who provide assistance will have experience with SSDI cases and have a success rate of higher than 34 percent. While waiting for benefits, it is important to create a budget and stick to it. This may be the only way a person is able to retain assets such as a home, car and 401(k) account. Individuals are also encouraged to find a way to keep their health insurance until a case is resolved.
Those who have an inability to work for at least 12 months could be entitled to SSDI benefits. Individuals who believe that they are entitled to payments may benefit from consulting with a legal representative. Legal counsel could help an applicant gather relevant information and submit an application by the filing deadline. Doing so may increase the odds of having an SSDI application approved in less time.