The Pros and Cons of Applying for Disability Benefits Online

Applying for disability benefits has become a growing necessity among Americans, especially for those in the workforce who can't perform work due to a medical condition. Generally, the perception of the whole application process for disability benefits has been somewhat shaky. This is due to the fact that, at least for those who underwent the process, it was overly tedious and stressful to deal with.

But then, the Social Security Administration (SSA), the federal agency that oversees the disability applications of applicants, has made life easier for those hoping to score benefits. With the whole world beholding the age of the Internet, there is no wonder that the SSA would go on that so-called "digital" direction; thus the federal agency's online application option.

The online application dilemma

For persons with disability who are planning to apply for disability benefits, the online option is considered their shortcut. While the purpose of the online application is to make life easier for them, it is often compared with the old-fashioned way of doing it, which is going directly to the nearest local SSA field office and applying for benefits in person.

Questions of the difference between the two options have often been a topic of discussion among those who are planning to apply for benefits. It can, therefore, be said that applying online has its advantages and disadvantages.

The pros...

One definite advantage of applying online is the fact that it is a fast and convenient way of acquiring benefits easier. People living at this day and age have become more savvy when it comes to using the Internet, and doing the application online would be just a piece of cake for them.

Moreover, if applicants are unsure whether or not they are qualified for benefits, they can consult with the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool. Available in the SSA's website, this tool gives them an opportunity to determine whether they could qualify for benefits under the Social Security disability program.

... and cons

However, disability applicants must know that the whole application process does not absolutely end with the online option. They still need to accomplish certain SSA forms, accumulate valuable medical information, and submit the claim to the local SSA field office. Additionally, the online application is not for everyone, particularly for those convicted of felony, those who do not live in the U.S., and for those who are applying disability benefits for a child.

Consequently, this will always boil down to preferences. Applying online or the old-fashioned way doesn't, in any way, change the applicants' qualification for benefits. To help them weigh these options in case they go undecided, they may consult with any reputable Los Angeles Social Security claim lawyers.