When you’re already dealing with health problems and financial problems, applying for disability benefits can seem like a huge task. We help people in Caledon with this process all the time and know many people are confused when they first start applying for disability benefits. We at Longo Lawyers have helped many clients through this process and know how important it is to get it right from the start.
First you need to find out what disability programs are available to you based on your situation. The Canada Pension Plan Disability benefit, provincial disability support programs and other financial assistance programs are just a few of the disability benefits in Canada. Before you start your application you need to know what the eligibility requirements, application process and benefit amounts are for each program.
One of the most important parts of any disability application is getting all your medical records together. Your medical documents must clearly show not only that you have a condition that qualifies but also how that condition makes it hard for you to work or do everyday tasks. All the healthcare providers who have treated your problem, such as family doctors, specialists, hospitals, rehabilitation centres and mental health professionals who know your case should submit this information.
When you apply for disability might have a big impact on whether you qualify and how much you get. Some programs require you to apply within a certain time frame after being disabled while others have waiting periods before you can start getting benefits. Also the application process can take many months so it’s best to start early so you get the money when you need it most.
To get benefits your medical condition must meet the requirements set out in the disability program standards. Having a medical diagnosis alone is not enough to get approved. You need to show that your condition makes it very hard for you to work on a regular basis. We help clients understand these requirements and make sure their applications show how their condition fits the standards.
The application forms have many parts that ask for specific and accurate information about your employment history, medical history and everyday limits. Even questions that seem simple can have big impacts on the result of your claim. For example if you incorrectly describe your everyday activities it can make it seem like you are more capable than your medical condition really allows which could result in a denial.
Supporting documents go beyond medical information to include things like your work experience, education and statements from family or friends who see your limitations on a daily basis. These extra pieces of evidence help paint a full picture of how your handicap affects your life and ability to work. You may also need to take vocational evaluations to show that you can’t do certain types of work because of your current limitations.
Many people get denied the first time they apply for disability because they don’t have all the paperwork or don’t follow the right steps. This first denial doesn’t mean your claim isn’t valid. Instead it usually means your claim needs more information or explanation to be properly supported.
We handle a wide range of legal issues including Slip and Fall Lawyer cases which gives us a lot of knowledge with all kinds of injuries and how they affect people’s lives in the long run. This information helps us understand how different medical conditions affect your ability to work and make your disability applications stronger.
The time it takes to process a disability claim depends on how complex your case is and how busy the office is right now. While you wait it’s still important to get in touch with your doctors and nurses so they can keep track of how your situation is changing.
You need to know about both federal and provincial programs available to people in Caledon to understand how to apply for disability. We help clients figure out which programs are right for their unique situation and needs while getting the most out of the benefits.