If you're disabled and can't work, you could receive social security disability (SSDI) benefits. However, applying can be a complex and lengthy process. One crucial factor that can affect your chances of getting approved is timing. Timing is critical when filing a social security disability claim, and it's essential to avoid common mistakes that can delay your application or lead to claim denial.

How Your Eligibility Is Determined  

SSDI considers your work history and the amount you have paid into Social Security. It has strict medical criteria for determining disability but also has different non-medical requirements.

For SSDI, you have five months from your disability onset before receiving any payments. Therefore, timing your application can make a big difference in how soon you can get benefits and how much you can get.

The Backlog of SSA Cases

Another reason timing is important is the backlog of disability cases. The Social Security Administration (SSA) receives quite a few applications yearly but only has limited resources to process them. The longer you wait, the greater the time frame before you will receive an answer. Therefore, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible.

The Availability of Evidence

Moreover, timing can affect the quality of your evidence. To prove disability, you must assemble medical records and other documents that show how your condition affects your ability to work. However, these records may become outdated or incomplete over time.

For example, suppose you stop seeing your doctor or taking your medications because you cannot afford them. In that case, your records may not reflect the severity of your condition. Or if you lose contact with your former employer or co-workers, you may not have witnesses who can testify about your work performance and limitations. Therefore, applying as soon as possible can help you preserve and gather the best evidence for your claim.

The Outcome of Your Appeal

Finally, timing can influence the outcome of your appeal. If denied initially, you can appeal the decision. However, you don't have much time to request a hearing. If you miss this deadline, you can't appeal. Therefore, paying attention to the dates and deadlines on your correspondence from SSA is essential for protecting your rights and pursuing your claim. Fortunately, an attorney can help you avoid missing deadlines.

Timing is a crucial factor when filing a social security disability claim. It can affect how soon you can get benefits, how much you can get, how strong your evidence is, and how successful your appeal is. To avoid common pitfalls and maximize your chances of getting approved, consult a disability attorney who will help you at every stage.