Similar to disability benefits for disabilities caused by a physical health condition, Social Security disability or SSD benefits may also be available for disabilities caused by a mental health condition. Additionally, Supplemental Security Income may also be available for disabled individuals who may not qualify for SSD benefits because they lack the necessary work history required to be eligible. When a mental disorder prevents the disabled individual from working, they may be able to claim SSD benefits.
The Social Security disability process in detail
Unfortunately, there are complex application processes associated with applying for either disability benefits or Supplement Security Income. Fortunately, the process of applying for Social Security disability or SSD benefits provides several levels of appeal when a disabled individual has been turned down for benefits. Understanding the process step-by-step can help it proceed more smoothly and can lead to a more successful outcome for applicants.
Mandatory wait on SSD benefits when you're dying lacks compassion
Many might argue the point, but the government is not without heart. As we noted in a post just last month, it is possible to obtain an expedited determination of eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. If an applicant in Missouri has a diagnosis for any one of about 225 illnesses identified as obviously being disabling, they may be able to be approved for benefits in weeks, rather than the months or even years it normally takes.
Understanding how to apply for disability with a mental condition
Social Security disability benefits can be important for individuals suffering with a disability that results from a mental health condition. As is true when a disabled individual is suffering from a physical health condition, disabled individuals who are unable to work because of their mental condition may also be able to obtain Social Security disability benefits to help them with their daily needs.
Changes to disability applications may create challenges
Social Security disability claims are already challenging, however, new rules that recently went into effect may make it even more difficult to obtain these badly needed benefits. The new rules eliminate what is referred to as the treating-physician rule, which historically provided significant deference to a report from a physician that accompanied a claim for benefits. The rule required those reviewing SSD claims for benefits to give significant weight to the physician's report.
