What Effect Has COVID-19 Had on Social Security Disability Benefits in Winchester, TN?

July 22nd, 2020 by Attorney John Colvin

Social Security Disability Facts

As of July 21st, 2020, the Tennessee Department of Health reports that 79,754 cases of COVID-19 have already been confirmed in the state. There is some evidence that the outbreak is continuing to accelerate in our region. You may be wondering: Will COVID-19 impact my ability to get SSDI or SSI benefits? Below, our Tennessee Social Security disability attorney answers the question by explaining how COVID-19 has (and has not) affected the claims process. 

Social Security Disability Claims: Three Things that Have Not Changed

While the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of life, Social Security disability applications are, for the most part, still being processed in a normal manner. Do not put off applying for benefits simply because of COVID-19. Here are three things that have not changed about the Social Security disability claims process: 

  • The SSA is Still Accepting Disability Claims: The Social Security Administration (SSA) is still accepting and reviewing SSDI and SSI claims. If you or your loved one is preparing to file a new disability benefit, COVID-19 should not prevent you from doing so. 
  • Ongoing Benefits are Unaffected: The SSA has emphasized that ongoing Social Security benefits are not directly affected by the pandemic. Benefits paid via direct deposit should come on time. Benefits paid via check in the mail should be issued on time, but may be slightly delayed if mail service is disrupted. 
  • Your Stimulus Check Will Not Be Counted Against You: Many Americans have received a stimulus check (Economic Impact Payment) to provide financial stability during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stimulus payments will not be counted against you in determining your financial eligibility for SSDI/SSI benefits. 

Social Security Disability Claims: Two Things that Have Changed

Although the SSA is trying to operate without disruptions, there are a few things that have changed. Here are two important ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic may affect your ability to recover SSDI benefits or SSI benefits: 

  • Some Physical Offices are Closed: Similar to many other employees across the country, many people at local Social Security Administration offices are working remotely during the pandemic. Physical office locations may be closed on a rolling basis until the COVID-19 virus is fully suppressed. You should always call to confirm an office is open before visiting it. 
  • Some Delays in Medical Evaluations are Possible: During the COVID-19 outbreak, people may also face some delays in getting a medical evaluation. Depending on the circumstances, delayed access to relevant medical documentation could slow down the claims process. Still, medical help should be available. A disability attorney can help you get started.  

Get Help From Our Winchester Social Security Disability Attorney Today

At the Law Offices of John Colvin, our Tennessee Social Security disability lawyer is an experienced, effective advocate for clients. If you have any questions about applying for disability benefits in the time of COVID-19, our SSD lawyer can help. For a free consultation, please contact our law firm today. With offices in Winchester and Tullahoma, we handle SSDI and SSI claims throughout Coffee County and Tennessee.

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