Applying and being approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can take months if not more than a year from start to finish. It may be necessary to appeal a rejection and start from scratch with your application with the help of an SSDI lawyer. During this time, life goes on, and marriages, divorces, and newly granted citizenship are the most likely reasons for a name – and, done incorrectly, they can put a major wrench in your SSDI or SSI application.
Your Name Is Everything
Yes, of course, your Social Security Number is important and relevant to any application for SSDI and SSI but your name matters too. If there is any discrepancy between the name on your application and past medical records and the name on your current identification and the latest medical documents, you are likely to be denied on name differences alone.
The Reason for a Name Change Is Irrelevant
It doesn’t matter whether you marry or divorce, the reason for a name change is less important than consistency where Social Security Insurance benefits are concerned. Maybe you saw your first doctor regarding your disability when you were unmarried, so your charts are in your maiden name. Maybe your newest doctors were acquired after getting married, and you are now using your spouse’s insurance and their name.
It is perfectly reasonable for you to take your spouse’s name or change your name after a divorce. What matters most is if you have an active Social Security disability claim, the Social Security Administration needs to know about the name change right away. Not knowing about the change in last name could delay the processing of your disability claim or result in rejection.
Every Detail Must Be Right
If you are working to receive SSDI, there are multiple steps to the appeals process. If your initial application is denied because of a name change issue, it’s essential to appeal properly and get every detail correct. An SSDI lawyer will guide you best in submitting an appeal for the denial of the application and give you the best chance of receiving benefits.
Making Legal Name Changes
Legal name changes must be approved directly by Social Security, but this doesn’t mean the SSDI or SSI offices are automatically notified when you go through this process. When you change your name, it is necessary to show the legal name change through a relevant document (marriage license, divorce decree, court order, or certificate of naturalization) and complete an application for a new Social Security card.
Get Legal Help with Your SSDI or SSI Appeal
Allow your SSDI lawyer to guide you through any process relating to your SSDI application or SSI application. Getting every item correct is essential for receiving an approval. If your initial application is denied because of changes in your name, it’s necessary to appeal it properly. An attorney will offer guidance to ensure you have the best possible chance of receiving benefits. Get help applying for disability benefits to increase your likelihood of qualifying. Schedule a consultation with Thurswell Law by calling (248) 354-2222 today. We do not charge any fees until we win.