Archive for January, 2011
Do I Need an Ohio Social Security Attorney to Apply Online?
Social Security Disability Benefits – Applying Online
Many people are not aware that they can apply for Social Security disability benefits online. The Social
Security Administration has created a fairly user friendly application process for you to apply for SSD or SSI benefits. But do you need an Ohio Social Security attorney at this point in the process? This short answer is no, but it gets a little more complicated than that. Most people will not need a Social Security attorney for the online application process, but since almost 70% of initial applications are denied, you may want to review your case with a qualified lawyer before you even begin.
Be Prepared
It is essential that you are prepared before you begin your online application. The online process, consists of two parts: 1. The Disability Application, 2. The Disability Report. Each part requires that you provide certain information.
The Disability Application
You will need the following documents:
- Tax Forms – all forms including 1099, W-2,and any other filings which you may have had in the year prior to year application
- Banking Information – Savings and checking account numbers, including your banks routing number
- Social Security Numbers – Yours, plus your spouse, as well as those of any children under 18 years of age.
- Military Discharge Information – Please provide Form DD 214 if you have ever been in the U.S. military
The Disability Report
Please have the following available:
- Contact Information – names, addresses, and phone numbers of any individuals who you think can help with your claim. This should include family members, as well as close friends who have knowledge of your medical conditions
- Medical Providers – The corresponding information for all of your medical providers, including professionals, clinics and hospitals. Please include patient ID information.
- Medication – List all medications which you are taking, as well as who has prescribed them.
- Medical Diagnostic Tests – Provide a list of any tests which you have undergone, as well as which provider ordered them.
As you can see, this is not a simple process, and although you do not need to have a Social Security attorney help you with the initial step, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to consult with one before you start. You can find some highly qualified lawyers simply by doing a search online. Almost all of them will offer a free initial consultation to review and discuss your claim. So as you can see, there is absolutely no reason to take these important steps without seeking professional advice.
Are Ohio Social Security Disability Payments Taxable?
Your Ohio Social Security Disability / Insurance (SSD / SSI) benefits may be subjected to being
taxed. This would depend upon how you file, and if you have other sources of income. If your Social Security benefits are your only source of income which you have received in the past year, then more than likely these benefits are not subject to income tax. If you have earned other money , then you will need to calculate whether your adjusted gross income is grater than the limits currently set by the Internal Revenue Service.
Social Security Disability Sole Source Income
If your sole source of income during the taxable year was your SSD / SSI benefits then it is not necessary to file tax return with the IRS. The income from your benefits will generally fall below the limits set by the government and none of this income will be subject to federal taxes. This rule also applies to all married couples filing jointly, where neither spouse has any income other than their SSD / SSI benefits.
Other Sources of Income – Calculations and Limits
If any individual, or spouse in the case of married couples, has earned income from other sources, then you should complete an IRS 1040 Form to calculate if you have any income subject to tax. The form an accompanying instructions will explain how to make these calculations, and will provide the limits to determine what, if any, of your income is subject to tax. As a general rule, an individual filing single, may be subject to tax if their adjusted income falls above $25,000, while those who file jointly might have to pay tax if their adjusted income rises above $32,000.
Although these rules may seem simple, it would be wise to consult a tax professional to review your specific set of facts. You can also find more information at the IRS website online.