How Long Should You Wait to File a Social Security Disability Claim?

Q: If your social security disability claim was denied, should you just apply again?
A: A claimant should not submit another social security disability application after he does not initially receive approval for benefits. Many people who wish to have their case reviewed again mistakenly apply again. The appropriate next step is to file an appeal. Having your case reconsidered will be your first step in the appeals process. A claimant must file the appeal to have his case reconsidered within 60 days of receiving notification that his initial claim was not approved. You will then appeal for a hearing, after your claim is reconsidered and denied. Having your case heard before an administrative judge offers one last chance to plead your case and allows the judge to comprehensively review your file and all supporting items. If you simply keep filing a new claim that goes through the initial review process, your case never gets to be heard by a judge. Not appealing adds tremendous and unnecessary time as you await a decision that is likely to not be in your favor, given that your claim was already denied at the initial review process stage. You will be back where you started. Appealing gives your case the best chance of approval.
Q: Can not taking prescriptions recommended by your physician weaken your social security disability claim?
A: You will weaken your case when applying for social security disability when you choose to not follow recommended prescription regiments. A disability examiner or judge may view your refusal to take medication as evidence that you do not need the medication because your condition does not hamper your ability to function or work. It is also almost impossible for a judge or disability examiner to understand the complete picture of your case and how your injury impacts your daily activity, if you are not taking your prescribed medication. It is vital that you follow the treatments prescribed by your doctor in order for a fair judgment to be made regarding your social security disability claim.
Q: Is there a certain amount of time you need to wait to submit a social security disability benefits application?
A: A decision may be rendered on some disability cases after only a couple months, while other may take years. For that reason, you should submit your application as soon as your injury prevents you from working and you believe you will be unable to work for at least 12 months. Do not wait. Contact Social Security as soon as possible to minimize wait time. If you would be more comfortable having legal representation, contact an attorney specializing in disability claims with Social Security.