Who Can Get Social Security Disability Benefits in Nevada?

When an individual is unable to maintain a regular job, there are options available to assist in receiving a livable wage. Earning Social Security disability benefits in the state of Nevada includes an application process and some knowledge on eligibility, which is broken down below for interested parties.

What Are Social Security Disability Benefits?

Retirees and eligible citizens can receive social security disability (SSD) benefits from the Social security Administration (SSA) office. This fixed monthly amount changes annually if a cost of living adjustment (COLA) takes place for the year. Over 9 million people received SSD benefits in 2021, with a large percentage classified as disabled workers.

Statistics and Facts Regarding SSD Benefits

The Social Security Administration reported that In 2023, approximately 8.7 million people received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, with an average disability benefit of $1,258 per month. The cost of SSDI payments for the same year amounted to nearly $144 billion. Furthermore, over 18% of disabled workers age 25 or older receive SSDI benefits in the United States. In Nevada, the average disability benefit was $1,537.13 per month in 2020.

These statistics only include people who have been approved for SSDI benefits and receive them regularly. For example, according to the SSA’s 2019 Annual Statistical Report, approximately 2.5 million out of 10 million initial applications (25%) were approved in 2019; this number is slightly lower than the prior year.

So, even though a large portion of applicants are approved for SSDI benefits, it’s important to understand that your initial application may be denied. In these cases, you may need to appeal the decision with the assistance of a Nevada Social Security disability lawyer.

How Eligibility Requirements Are Determined for Social Security Disability Benefits in Nevada

The Social Security Administration must declare benefits-eligible individuals unable to work for a certain period of time. Those that can qualify for Social Security Disability must be eligible through select conditions such as:

Employment status: if someone is working or not able to work, or if their disability prevents them from working their previous job or a future one.

Credits and work history: A prior work history is required for consideration of Social Security benefits for a select number of years. The Social Security Administration will require applicants to fill out a Work History Report document for consideration.

Dealing with a severe medical condition: Certain physical constraints are considered for qualification. If a condition will have long-term limitations on a person’s right to work, that factors into SSD reception. Chronic illnesses, mental health conditions and physical handicaps are all considered to be qualifying factors, though the circumstances may vary.

Belonging by qualifications: Potential beneficiaries with an inability to work will have their condition matched on a Social Security database. This list is also flexible to a variety of circumstances.

How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits in Nevada

Those looking to receive SSD benefits must go through an application process. Applications can be submitted online, or over the phone if necessary. Nevada residents can also file in person. There are several in-person office locations in Las Vegas, Reno and other major cities, making it easy to talk to representatives about correct filing and other Social Security matters.

Come prepared to file. Potential necessary documents can include an original copy of your birth certificate, proof of citizenship or lawful alien resident status, W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns from the previous year and complete medical records that contain up-to-date information.

The waiting period spans months, so the Social Security office details a long waiting period from the date of declared disability. For a step-by-step guide on the process of filing for disability, along with methods for finding the best legal representation possible, explore our SSD information page for receiving disability benefits.

What To Do If Your Claim Is Denied

If an application for SSDI benefits is denied, you might be able to appeal the decision and submit additional evidence to prove you qualify for disability benefits. The SSA will review the initial claim, as well as any new medical evidence and documentation submitted with the appeal.

You must file an appeal within 60 days of the date of your denial. If you miss this deadline, you may have to start the entire application process over again from the beginning.

To avoid the possibility of a claim denial also must make sure that all documentation and forms are properly filled out and submitted on time in order for your appeal to be considered by the SSA. Hiring an experienced SSDI lawyer can help ensure that your appeal is handled correctly and that you receive the disability benefits you are entitled to.

How an Experienced Law Firm Can Help

While this system is helpful, there are setbacks and obstacles that applicants can face. Long waiting periods, confusing paperwork and submission denials are difficult to maneuver, even when all documentation is present.

Seeking legal counsel during this process can be a huge advantage. Not only do experienced disability attorneys understand the processes that need to take place for a claim file, but a firm knowledge of the systems will help appeal denied claims, garner the correct medical evidence and more.

Anyone considering applying for SSD benefits doesn’t have to figure out the process alone. Our team of experienced attorneys is here to help. Contact Shook & Stone today for expert guidance and support tailored to any unique situation.