Noteboom The Law Firm

5-Month-Waiting-Period Affects Those Awaiting Disability Benefits

The wait for Social Security disability benefits affects thousands and thousands of Americans, including those with terminal diseases that continue to wait for their money. Many of these applicants are then subjected to the 5-month-waiting-period which impacts how and when disability benefits will begin to be paid to an approved individual.

Fosters.com reports that one woman battling cancer is concerned that she might not receive her full Social Security disability benefits before she passes away. Heather Russell was diagnosed with an advanced stage of cancer in May, 2009, and continued working until her doctor advised her to quit in October, 2009. She continues to wait for her first disability check, which will be about $1,500.

Unfortunately, Heather Russell has been given anywhere from weeks to months to live. Her case illustrates the need for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to possibly re-evaluate the imposed 5-month-waiting-period. 

People in Heather Russell's community have offered to pitch in and offer financial support to the woman and her family - a generous act for which the family is very grateful. Russell and her family remain determined to help change the SSA regulation that says those with disability must still wait 5 months for their payments to kick in after being approved for benefits.

If you or your loved is suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability and/or Supplemental Security Income benefits can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The attorneys at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Atlanta, Georgia, understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.