It may seem that people in an affluent neighborhood like West Los Angeles are without need of disability benefits. The contrary appear, however. In fact, some of its residents just like any other are in bad need of disability benefits.

Claimants may encounter some problems that usually arise in pursuing those benefits. In which case, West Los Angeles Disability Benefits Lawyers are always within reach at this part of California.

Disability Benefits

Disability is inevitable. Studies show that a 20-year-old worker has a 3:10 ratio of becoming disabled before reaching retirement age.

It is always an advantage to be knowledgeable with the programs of the government that deal with disability.

Disability benefits are paid through two programs: the Social Security disability insurance program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.

Who are entitled?

Social Security pays benefits to those who cannot work because they have a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death.

Federal law observes this very strict definition of disability. While some programs give money to people with partial disability or short-term disability, Social Security does not.

Earning Requirement

In general, to acquire disability benefits, you must meet two different earnings tests:

1.A ?recent work? test, which is based on your age at the time you became disabled; and

2.A ?duration of work? test to show that you worked long enough under Social Security.

How to Apply

There are two ways on how to apply for disability benefits. You can either:

1.Apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov; or

2.Call this toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, to set an appointment.

When to Apply

As soon as you become disabled, you should apply for disability benefits. This is because it can take a long time to process an application for disability benefits, usually three to five months.

What to submit

To apply for disability benefits, you will need to complete an application for Social Security Benefits and the Disability Report.

In doing so, the following information must be submitted:

?Social Security number;

?birth or baptismal certificate;

?Names, addresses and phone numbers of the doctors, health providers, hospitals and clinics and dates of your check ups;

?Names and prescribed amount of all the medicines you take;

?Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics and caseworkers in your possession;

?Laboratory and test results;

?A summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did; and

?A copy of the most recent W-2 Form (Wage and Tax Statement) or a federal tax return for the past year, if you are self-employed.

In addition to this form, other forms must be filled out. One form gathers information about your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work. Other forms give doctors, hospitals and other health care professionals who have treated you permission to send information regarding your medical condition.

Upon disability, it is always advisable to file your disability claim without any delay.