While it is possible for somebody who is not yet 50 years of age to obtain Social Security disability benefits, it is quite a bit more complicated than for somebody who is over 50 years of age. For those that are younger than 50, obtaining disability benefits is dependant on their ability to prove that there is no work they are currently able to do. For somebody over 50, on the other hand, the only proof they need to provide is that they are no longer able to have the same vocation they did during the last fifteen years.
Those people who do not have medical insurance of their own can visit Social Security doctors for evaluation. Their doctors are not there to help you but to evaluate your case in a quick and methodical fashion. Because of this, having a record of treatment from independent (non Social Security) doctors is generally the best way to provide proof of your disability. Doctors that know you and know what you are going through.
If, however, you have no access to medical insurance, you have two different options for obtaining care. Your local county clinic and vocational rehabilitation. County clinics are there for people who do not have medical insurance. When you first contact these clinics you should not immediately tell them of your medical problems. Why? Because underfunded county clinics often turn away those with complex medical problems, insisting that they do not have enough money to treat you. They may decide to turn you away before you even get to see a doctor. You just simply them that you do not have medical insurance and you need a primary doctor. Do not tell them anything more. Then, when you get in to see the doctor, you can provide details about your condition and concerns. Often times, they will send you to specialists for your conditions and pay for it.
The Vocational Rehabilitation Program, is a state funded program designed to help people be trained to do some type of work. But before they send you to work, they will look at your existing medical records from previous medical providers and they will also send you to their doctors. They will pay for doctor visits, medications, tests and even surgeries and/or procedures, if warranted. At the end, they will make a determination as to whether they feel you can or cannot work. If at the end of the decision process the program determines you unable to work, they will then send you over to Social Security to apply for benefits. Having this happen can be really boost your Social Security disability claim, as a government vocational program has already determined you to be unfit to work. And as a “bonus,” you have also received the treatments and medicines you needed without having to pay a penny. On the other hand if they believe that you can work then they will train you and help you find a job. The records from the doctors that vocational rehabilitation sent you to can also be used as evidence in support of your claim for disability benefits.
The truth is, it is incredibly difficult to get Social Security disability benefits if you are under 50 unless you have received medical treatment outside of Social Security. Because of this, if you are looking to apply for Social Security disability, it is important to start the process by seeking medical treatment for your condition immediately.