Social Security benefits applications hit record high
Applications for Social Security benefits hit a historic high in 2009. That year, more than 2.74 million people submitted applications for Social Security benefits, more than any year in the program’s 75 year history. Many people applied for Social Security since they wanted to collect retirement benefits at the earliest age possible (62 years old) due to fewer job opportunities as a result of the recession.
But Social Security benefits aren’t just for retirees. Did you know you can receive Social Security benefits if you’re younger than 62 years old for a variety of reasons? The most common reason why people under 62 years old receive Social Security benefits is for medical conditions which prevent them from working.
Two types of Social Security benefits are available for people with medical conditions: Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits and Social Security Income (SSI). You can receive SSD benefits if you have a medical condition expected to last at least one year and have worked a certain amount of time (varies by age) in the past several years. SSI is available to people who have not worked long enough to qualify for SSD benefits.
In both cases, the federal government routinely denies initial claims. The government rejects 60 to 70 percent of all first-time disability claims. The government may also try to not pay the maximum amount owed to a recipient. The entire process can sometimes take years and be extremely frustrating.
Don’t give up hope. You can appeal. You have rights. Getting money you’re legally entitled to receive can be difficult, but there are ways to make sure you get your Social Security benefits. You just need someone in your corner who understands the system. You need someone who knows how to get results. You need the Law Offices of Goodman Acker.
Serving clients throughout Michigan, Goodman Acker has years of experience successfully fighting for clients to receive their Social Security benefits. The government created this system to help those most in need. Let us help you. Contact Goodman Acker today. We’re on your side.
