If you live in Kentucky and you have worked before but now you can’t work because you have an illness or injury that makes it impossible for you to work you can file a claim for Social Security disability benefits. Let’s look at how to qualify for Social Security disability benefits in Kentucky.
Understanding the Definition of Disability in Kentucky
Kentucky defines disability the same way that the Federal government defines disability. To be considered disabled in Kentucky you must have an illness or impairment that is so severe it prevents you from engaging in any kind of substantial gainful activity, or work, and is expected to last at 12 months or result in death.
That means when you submit an application for disability benefits in Kentucky you must show proof that you have a condition or injury that is going to make it impossible for you to do any type of work for at least a year. If you can prove that you cannot do any type of work that you have experience in then you may be approved for Social Security disability benefits.
What Conditions Qualify For Disability In Kentucky?
The Social Security Administration maintains a list of more than 200 different conditions that are considered disabling. To qualify for Social Security disability benefits in Kentucky, just like in the rest of the country, you must show the SSA that you have been diagnosed with one of those conditions. You will also have to show that you meet all of the SSA’s requirements.
The Blue Book is the official list of all conditions that the SSA recognizes. There are physical and mental health conditions listed in the Blue Book. You can search the Blue Book online on the SSA’s website, or you can visit your local SSA office to look at the Blue Book.
Every listing in the Blue Book has a set of requirements. When you submit your application for Social Security disability benefits you must include a diagnosis from a doctor proving that you have that condition. And you must submit medical records that show you meet all the requirements in that listing.
You can also submit an RFC form filled out by your doctor. An RFC is a form where your doctor can describe in detail what your symptoms are and why they make it impossible for you to work. You don’t have to submit an RFC, but it can make your case stronger.
Types of Disability Benefits Available in Kentucky
There are two primary kinds of disability benefits available in Kentucky: Social Security disability benefits and SSI. Disability benefits, also called SSDI, are available to anyone who has worked in the past and earned work credits. If you have had a job but now you can’t work you should apply for SSDI.
If you have never worked because you have an illness or impairment that you’ve had since childhood, you can apply for SSI. SSI is specifically for adults who have been disabled since childhood or for children who have a serious medical condition or disability.
If your child has a serious illness or disability you can apply for SSI for your child. However, you will have to submit financial information for all of the adults in the household with the application to prove that your total household income is below the income cap set by the SSA. You will also need to document that the money is being spent on the child’s expenses.
If you have been receiving SSI for a child, when the child turns 18 they can apply for SSI in their own name to continue receiving benefits.
If you qualify for SSDI or SSI you may also qualify for aid programs like SNAP, WIC, Medicaid or Medicare, and financial aid for things like housing and utilities.
Gathering Documentation Required for Disability Applications
Before you start to fill out the application for Social Security disability benefits you should take the time to get as much documentation of your disability as you can. Having the right documentation is essential to getting your application approved.
You will also need to provide identity documents, work history, and other information that could take some time to gather. Use this handy checklist to start getting together all of the documents that you will need to successfully complete your application for disability benefits. You will need:
- A medical diagnosis from a doctor
- Medical records showing you are being treated for an illness or condition listed in the Blue Book
- Medical records showing you meet the requirements in the Blue Book
- An RFC filled out by your doctor
- Birth certificate or other proof of birth
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if you were not born in the United States
- U.S. military discharge paper(s) if you had military service before 1968
- W-2 forms(s) and/or self-employment tax returns for last year
- Award letters, pay stubs, settlement agreements or other proof of any temporary or permanent workers' compensation-type benefits you received
If you’re not sure what documents you will need to submit with your application it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer that specializes in Social Security disability cases. A Social Security disability attorney can help you gather evidence, fill out the application, and appeal if your application is denied in Kentucky.
How To Find A Disability Lawyer Taking Cases In Kentucky
If you have already applied for disability benefits and your application was denied you should speak with a disability attorney before you file your appeal. An attorney can help you revise your application so that you have a better chance of getting approved on appeal.
If you haven’t filed your application for Social Security benefits in Kentucky yet now is the time to speak with a disability attorney. A disability lawyer taking cases in Kentucky can explain the process of filing a claim for Social Security disability benefits in detail, help you figure out what documentation you need, and help you fill out the application paperwork correctly.
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