There are no restrictions on the number of times you could qualify for disability benefits in Arkansas. However, realistically, it is difficult to have one benefits claim approved, let alone multiple claims. The Social Security Administration (SSA) strictly scrutinizes benefits applications – denying more than half of all initial claims.
If you were getting Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and your condition improved or you returned to work, your monthly payments would have been terminated. You could apply for benefits a second time if your medical condition deteriorated or you developed a different impairment. However, an approval would not be automatic; you would be required to go through the same process as before. This is the case even if your impairment is the same disability. Likewise, if you were receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and your benefits were terminated either because your condition improved or due to a change in your income and resource, you could reapply if your circumstances worsened again.
Whether you are applying for disability benefits for the first time, appealing a denial, or filing another claim due to a change in your condition, the process is challenging. Our Fayetteville, AR disability lawyers have the expertise and resources to help you increase your chances of obtaining the benefits you need. To arrange a free and confidential appointment, call our law offices at (479) 316-0438.
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance More Than Once in Arkansas
The Social Security Administration does not impose any limitations on the number of times you could be approved for SSDI benefits. Nonetheless, some practical concerns will factor into the SSA’s determination. Having our seasoned Arkansas disability lawyers on your side will help increase your chances of obtaining an approval.
From a practical point of view, being approved for disability benefits more than once is very difficult. First, your initial claim must have been approved. As anyone who has applied for benefits will attest, this is not an easy process. Next, your benefits must have been terminated for a reason. Perhaps your condition improved or you returned to the workforce. In either case, you would no longer qualify for SSDI benefits. If you were incarcerated, your benefits would have been suspended for the time you were in jail. Upon release, your benefits should be reinstated.
To qualify for benefits for a second time, you will have to go through the application process all over again. This means providing sufficient medical evidence that your condition qualifies as a disability and prohibits you from working. In addition to the medical documentation, you will have had to earned sufficient work credits. If you could not work for a significant amount of time due to your previous impairment, you might not have enough credits to qualify for SSDI.
There is one difference in the process if you are applying for benefits a second time. When someone initially applies for SSDI, there is a required five-month waiting period before the SSA will begin processing payments. In most cases, it takes longer than five months for the SSA to make a determination. When an application is approved, an applicant is eligible for back payments. However, these back payments only extend to the end of the five-month period.
If you are applying for disability benefits a second time, this five-month waiting period does not apply if it has been five years or less since your previous benefits were approved Therefore, if your new claim is approved, you will be entitled to back payments from the onset date of your new disability. If it has been longer than five years since you were previously approved for SSDI, the waiting period applies. Our knowledgeable Fort Smith disability lawyers understand the nuances and hurdles involved with applying for SSDI a second or third time.
Applying for Supplemental Security Income For a Second Time in Arkansas
SSI benefits are designed for disabled individuals who have not earned enough work credits and who have limited income and resources. Once approved for SSI, you could lose your benefits if your medical condition or financial situation improves. Similar to SSDI, you would have to go through the entire approval process again if you are filing a second or third claim. However, there is no five-month waiting period for an SSI claim. If your application is approved, you will receive back payments dating back to the onset date of your new disability.
In certain situations, you might be able to file for SSI benefits if you were previously on SSDI benefits. The Social Security Administration requires a certain number of work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits. If you were unable to work for a significant number of years because of your original disability, you might not have earned enough work credits before the onset of your most recent disability. Our experienced Rogers disability lawyers would carefully evaluate your resources and income to determine if you qualify for SSI. Remember, qualifying for SSI is a two-part process – you must have a qualifying disability and you must meet the SSA’s strict financial requirements.
Experienced Arkansas Social Security Disability Benefits Attorneys Offering Free Consultations
Being approved for Social Security Disability benefits one time is no easy task. While there are no restrictions on how many times you could be approved for benefits, the process does not become any easier. In fact, there might be more hurdles in your way the second time. Our Springdale Social Security Disability lawyers have the professional experience and resources to increase your odds of obtaining an approval. To arrange a confidential and free consultation, call (479) 316-0438.