Depending on the condition you have and the age you file for SSDI, you may have more or less chances to get disability benefits from Social Security. Apparently, it seems to be easier to qualify for Disability Insurance the closer you are to retirement age.
If your SSDI application is not accepted, you can file a request of reconsideration. Bear in mind that there is a deadline and that you should do it before it comes to an end. In fact, there are just 65 days to do so.
WHAT IF I WAIT FOR MORE THAN 65 DAYS TO REQUEST RECONSIDERATION FOR MY SSDI APPLICATION?
This is something you should avoid because you will have to start all over again. Therefore, you will have to send a new SSDI application which can delay the process. Do not forget that there are higher wait times than usual, so it could be a waste of time.
If you do it on time and Social Security denies your SSDI application again, you could appeal once more. Actually, you can appeal up to 4 times. In this case, it will be a hearing with a judge.
After the hearing with a judge, there can be a review of the hearing decision with the Appeals Council if you do not get approval. Finally, the last chance to appeal will be through the U.S. District Court. All you have to do is File federal district court action.
ALTERNATIVES TO SSDI PAYMENTS
Hopefully, you get approval before you reach the fourth appeal request. If this is not the case, you could also apply for SSI or Supplemental Security Income. These payments can be worth up to $943 for a single person or up to $1,415 for eligible married couples.
Apart from SSI, those who do not qualify for SSDI can apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. This is the former Food Stamps program, known as SNAP benefits in the United States.
Women with children with a disability may also apply for WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children). Apart from that, you could check is you qualify for TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families).
