If you live in Michigan and have not been capable of working for a long period of time due to either an illness or an injury, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, better known as SSD. It is a federal benefit program that provides you with cash each month to live off of if you meet specific requirements. 

Where To Apply For SSD In Michigan

In Michigan, your application for SSD will go through the local Social Security Administration or SSA field office. You can apply for benefits one of three ways. You can go in person to your local SSA office or call your local office to start the application process. 

You can also start the application process online through the Social Security website.  It is important to note that you are able to fill out and answer the questions online, but you then have to print out the documents and either mail or take them to your local SSA office. The online option is only partially online. 

What You Fill Have To Provide With Your Application

You will be required to provide very specific information with your application. You will have to provide details about your condition and how it specifically makes it impossible for you to work. You will also have to provide medical contact information and provide proof of the treatment you have sought out for your disability. Finally, you will also have to provide information about your employment history and past earnings. All of this information will be used to determine if you qualify for disability assistance and how much assistance you qualify for. 

What Happens Once You Submit Your Completed Application

Once you have submitted your application through your local SSD office, they will then send your application to the Disability Determination Services (DDS) which is an agency in Michigan that operates at the state level and is under the umbrella of the Michigan Department of Health Services.

The DDS employs claims examiners who work exclusively with SSD applications. They will review your complete application and determine if you are disabled. Generally, after a couple of months, you will then receive a letter in mail that lets you know if you were approved for benefits or denied. 

What Happens If You Are Denied

If you are denied benefits, you can submit a reconsideration form. This form will take your same application and have a different examiner with the DDS review to to make sure that your denial was correct. 

If you still are not approved, then the next step is to present your case in front of an administrative law judge through a formal hearing process. This process can include a rather long waiting period.

The best way to ensure that your application for SSD is approved the first time and you don't have to go through the reconsideration and formal hearing process is by working with a disability attorney. They can ensure that your application includes all necessary documents and will be able to give the DDS reviewer a clear picture of your need for assistance. 

For more information, contact Bruce K Billman or a similar legal professional.