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Can a Person Receive Both Medicare and Social Security Disability?
Q: What can my doctor do to help with my social security disability claim?
A: Statements on your behalf made by your physician carry a lot weight when applying for social security disability benefits. That being said, the quality and content of any opinion rendered matters. A short statement that only says your condition prevents you from working would not be helpful to your case. Any document on your behalf from your doctor should provide your diagnosis, the physical limitations of the condition and your prognosis. A descriptive and supportive document from your doctor is an asset to your social security disability case.
Q: What do I do now that my application for social security disability benefits was denied?
A: If your initial application for social security disability benefits is not approved, you should plan to appeal. Over 60 percent of cases are denied after the initial review process. You should first get in touch with the case officer assigned to your file at the Social Security Administration and file an appeal for reconsideration. After your case is reconsidered and it is not approved, your next step will be to make an appeal for your case to be heard before a judge. If you do not yet have a social security attorney, it may be wise to consult with one before the appeal process.
Q: If I receive social security disability benefits, am I also eligible for Medicare?
A: If you receive social security disability, you can also receive Medicare benefits. You can receive your first Medicare benefits about two years after you receive your first social security disability benefits. Those approved for social security disability benefits are eligible to receive their first check after a five month waiting period from the onset date of their condition. A date of onset was established when your case was reviewed by Social Security. That is the date when it was determined that your injury or condition first began. So you can calculate when you would be eligible for Medicare benefits by knowing what the onset date for your case is. Individuals who are awarded SSI will be eligible for Medicaid, not Medicare. If you receive both SSI and social security disability, you will need to contact your case manager to know what program will cover you.