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For some individuals, filing for disability feels like the ultimate defeat. Not only are they admitting to the world that they can’t provide for themselves or their family, but many feel a sense of shame at receiving money in the form of “government handouts.” Complicating matters is the fact that the social security disability (SSD) or SSI determination process itself can make an individual feel a bit as if they are on trial; he or she must prove that they are unable to work, and in many cases this involves asking friends, neighbors, or relatives to corroborate that one is truly disabled. However, if you are suffering with a disabling medical condition, it is best to file your claim sooner rather than later. There is currently a backlog of cases within the social security disability system, and the situation is only likely to worsen as the population ages and given the current economic trends. Most disability cases take three months to decide, and if a disability examiner denies your case, any reconsideration appeal will likely take as long to decide, if not longer. In fact, the average wait to appear before an administrative law judge (who reviews the case after it has been denied by disability determination services) is one to two years. There is no doubt that filing a claim for social security disability can seem daunting at best, but those with a physical or mental disability that is preventing them from earning a living would be well advised to take the first step toward filing for disability. This simply involves calling your local social security office and asking to schedule a disability application interview. At the interview you will find out more about the disability determination process, and you can ask any questions you may have, such as what sorts of medical or work history documentation is required, and most importantly if your current earnings are under the dollar amount necessary to qualify for disability benefits. Social security defines this dollar amount as SGA, which stands for substantial gainful activity, and you have to be earning less than this to apply for either SSD or SSI. Keep in mind that, even if you file for disability, it is likely to be some time before you see any real financial relief. Do not put off initiating the disability determination process until you are no longer able to physically (or mentally) function. 
Social Security Disability and SSI Disability Information
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