Mental Disabilities & Social Security Disability Claims
Mental illness is something that can affect a large portion of people in our society, and the odds indicate most people know someone who suffers from a mental disability in some way. In fact, according to statistics cited by Johns Hopkins Medicine, approximately 26% of American adults suffer from some form of diagnosable mental health disorder in any given year. With so many people close to us suffering in this way, it’s natural to want to find a way to help them. For individuals suffering from certain types of mental disabilities, benefits may be available to them through a Social Security Disability claim.
At Gordon, Wolf & Carney, we are dedicated to helping individuals and families pursue the financial benefits they need when forces keep them from living normal lives. Our team is ready to meet with you to learn more about your unique situation, explain the different options that may be available to you, and help you find your way through the often complicated claims process. If you are looking for guidance to help a loved one with a mental disability seek Social Security Disability benefits, contact us today. From our location in Towson, Maryland, we proudly serve clients nationwide.
Types of Mental Disabilities That Qualify for Disability Benefits
As understanding of mental illnesses and disabilities has grown, the range of mental disabilities covered under Social Security Disability benefits has grown along with it. Currently, the types of mental disabilities eligible for SSD benefits include:
Schizophrenia, paranoia, and psychotic disorders
Anxiety disorders
Organic mental Disorders
Somatoform disorders
Autism
Intellectual disabilities
Substance addiction
Affective disorders
Personality disorders
If you suffer from one of the conditions listed above, you may be able to receive benefits through Social Security Disability. If you suffer from an illness or condition that is not listed above, consulting with an attorney with experience in Social Security Disability benefits and eligibility may provide you with a clearer understanding of where you stand.
Types of Benefits Available Through Social Security Disability
There are two different programs under the Social Security Administration that may be options to provide benefits for mental disabilities — Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Social Security Income (SSI).
To be eligible for SSDI, you must have a condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and you are required to have paid into Social Security for at least five of the last 10 years.
To qualify for SSI, you must have a condition that prevents you from working on an ongoing basis and your income must be below a certain level.
Filing a Claim for Mental Disability Benefits With the SSA
In order to file a claim for benefits from the Social Security Administration, you must submit an application. For SSDI, you can fill out the application online, but for SSI, there is no online application and other steps (including an in-person interview) are required.
Documenting Your Mental Disability to Increase Your Chances of Approval
Obtaining Social Security benefits for a mental disability can be a challenge. Gathering any and all available documentation for your condition will be helpful for your chances of having your claim approved. This documentation can include:
All medical records
All medications used
Statements from your doctor or mental healthcare provider
If your condition falls outside of what may be considered “normal” parameters for approval, having as much documentation and corroboration from medical professionals as possible will be beneficial.
Put Your Trust in a Skilled Attorney
If you are taking care of a loved one who suffers from a mental disability, you not only carry the burden of their well-being but also the responsibility to help them get every type of financial benefit available to them. This can often lead to a complicated, drawn-out process of filing claims, applying for benefits, and waiting for approval. With so much on your shoulders, being able to turn to a law firm with extensive experience in leading people through the process is invaluable. Letting trained legal professionals take the lead while you focus on providing care can give you much-needed peace of mind.
If you or a loved one suffers from a mental disability and needs help exploring different options for obtaining benefits through Social Security Disability, our team is ready to provide trusted and reliable assistance. No one should have to try to navigate the complex world of government disability benefits on their own. With us by your side, you can feel confident that the process will go as smoothly as possible. Our goal will always be to get our clients the benefits they deserve to provide them with the best quality of life available. For help seeking Social Security Disability benefits for a mental disability, contact us at Gordon, Wolf & Carney today. Our Towson, Maryland-based law firm serves the needs of clients nationwide.