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You should apply for Social Security Disability in North Carolina as soon as a doctor diagnoses you with a medical condition and that condition prevents you from working.
Understanding when to apply for disability benefits can make a difference in managing the application process and how quickly the Social Security Administration can approve the benefits you need.
Our North Carolina Social Security Disability lawyer can provide more information based on the specific details of your case, the best advice is generally to apply as soon as your health prevents you from earning a living. If your doctor believes your condition could last a year or more, you could qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or both.
Apply for Social Security Disability as Soon as You Are Unable to Work
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recommends applying for disability benefits as soon as you have a medical condition that prevents you from working. According to the SSA, your disability must:
- Prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). The SGA earnings limit is the monthly income rate the Social Security Administration sets as a maximum for determining whether you can work and earn a living. For 2025, the maximum is $1,620 for most individuals.
- Last a year or more, be expected to last at least 12 months or result in your death. While doctors must expect your condition to last at least one year, you do not have to wait a year to apply.
There is no reason for North Carolinians to wait to apply. Some people believe there are mandatory waiting periods or you must be disabled for at least one year before filing your application. These beliefs are false. You can apply as soon as you receive a qualifying diagnosis or your condition prevents you from working.
Why Timing Matters in Your North Carolina Social Security Disability Claim
Like other states, North Carolina follows federal SSA rules for processing claims. However, the state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) office reviews and approves (or denies) each application.
This process can take several months. If the DDS denies your initial claim, an appeal could add more time to how long it takes to get approved for benefits.
The sooner you apply, the sooner you can be approved. If you wait, you could be without income for a significant period while battling denials through the appeals process.
What Benefits Are Available in North Carolina?
Social Security Disability includes two programs for those whose disabilities prevent them from working:
- SSDI: This program is for those forced to leave the workforce because of their health. There are no income limits, but you must meet the medical requirements and have enough work credits to qualify.
- SSI: This needs-based program requires you to meet medical requirements as well as strict income and asset limits. There are no work credit requirements.
A Social Security Disability attorney can help you weigh your options for whether you should apply for SSDI or SSI. Some people may qualify for both programs and can receive both benefits.
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How Delaying Your Disability Claim Can Cause Significant Problems
People have many reasons why they hesitate to apply for disability benefits, including the following:
- They believe their condition will improve
- They want to return to work soon
- They think they must wait
- They assume the SSA will deny their claim
However, waiting too long can actually make it more difficult to get the money you deserve. Common issues include:
- Loss of evidence: Some evidence becomes more challenging to obtain as time passes.
- Lack of medical care: You must continue your medical care to get approved, regardless of how difficult it can be without a job or insurance.
- Retroactive benefits: Your benefits could include retroactive payments for up to 12 months before your application date but will not extend beyond this period.
How a North Carolina Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help
A Social Security Disability attorney helps you prepare and file your application, ensuring you have all the necessary information. They will also advocate for and represent you in the appeals process when required. Some ways you can expect your attorney to work for you include:
- Completing forms accurately: SSDI and SSI applications involve extensive paperwork. Mistakes often lead to delays or denials. Your lawyer will ensure you complete the paperwork accurately and completely, including providing correct contact information for all your care providers.
- Representing you in appeals: If the SSA denies your claim, your attorney could represent you in the appeals process, including reconsideration, hearings before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), going before an Appeals Council, and taking the case to federal court when necessary.
- Gathering evidence to make a compelling case: Some levels of the appeals process consider new evidence. Your attorney will help collect detailed medical records and doctors’ statements to prove your condition prevents you from working and earning a living.
The best way to understand if you qualify for SSDI, SSI, or other benefits based on your condition and inability to work is to discuss your options with a Social Security Disability attorney in North Carolina. A disability attorney can effectively manage your claim and any necessary appeals, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being.
Discuss Your Social Security Disability Application with Our Team Today
If you cannot work due to a disabling condition, consider your options for Social Security Disability today. You do not have to wait to apply for SSDI or SSI benefits. Starting the process as soon as possible could mean getting approved and receiving your benefits sooner.
Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, provides free consultations for anyone with questions or needing help filing for Social Security Disability benefits. Let us review your case and discuss how our lawyers can help.
Our team has multiple offices across North Carolina, including Rutherfordton, Morganton, and Shelby. Contact us today to learn more.
