HOW COVID-19 IS IMPACTING SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

The Social Security disability process is still working...sort of.

Here are the major hurdles caused by the COVID-19 virus:

• All Social Security offices are closed for in person visits.  
• Offices take phone calls but have limited staff and offer limited services.
• The Disability Determination Service (which processes all applications for disability) is closed indefinitely during the crisis.
• Hearings that have been previously scheduled are being held by telephone only.
• On approved claims, payment processing is taking longer than ever.

Here is what we recommend if you are recently disabled:

1.  Go ahead and file an application now to get your "protected filing date."  This can preserve benefits.

2.  Consider filing online at www.socialsecurity.gov.

3.  Expect unusual delays in your application.  The "normal" wait for the initial decision was 90 to 120 days.  Who knows how long the wait is now, but apply anyway.  The sooner your application date, the better.

4.  If have a dire need, a critical case (such as a terminal or catastrophic illness), call the Social Security office.  In Huntsville that phone number is (866) 593-0665.  

5.  If you want assistance by a professional disability advocate, contact the Forsythe Firm in Huntsville at (256) 799-0297.  Yes, we answer questions by phone, no charge.

You may also email us at forsythefirm@gmail.com