Karen Stolzberg

There is a difference between Social Security Disability Income and Supplemental Security Income. If you inadvertently applying for the wrong one, you end up wasting valuable time trying to get everything straightened out. Let a team of professionals work for you.

How long should you expect to wait before receiving Social Security Disability Insurance, if you are successful? Since most cases are turned down initially, the appeal process can easily take one to two years, according to the Social Security and Disability Resource Center.

Applying for disability benefits can be a complicated process, mired in bureaucracy. An attorney that specializes in Social Security Disability can streamline the process and help you navigate the tricky areas.

If you are applying for disability due to a work related injury, speaking with an attorney is the first step. They can help you file your claim, prepare for the case hearing, and make sure that you are receiving the correct amount of benefits.

If you were among the first people to receive monthly Social Security checks in 1940, that first decade was pretty rough. Benefits didn't increase until 1950, when the concept of "cost of living adjustments" was added to the law.

More than 6 out of 10 Americans who received disability benefits in 2011 suffered from other mental conditions or some type of musculoskeletal condition, such as spinal injuries or arthritis.

A doctor's opinion that a person is disabled can be extremely helpful in obtaining Social Security disability benefits but is not an automatic guarantee. Such an opinion needs to be supported by medical evidence and/or other evidence that an attorney can help obtain.

Short term and long term disability insurance can protect your financial wellbeing by replacing lost wages if an illness or injury prevents you from working. Some employers offer disability insurance plans. If your employer does not offer this coverage, or if you are self-employed, you can buy personal disability insurance.