Social security benefit concerns have been a big discussion in the wake of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

People who already receive benefits are wondering whether they can still expect to collect them; those who had existing applications in place are wondering whether their claims are still being processed; and even more people are wondering whether they will be able to obtain social security disability benefits if they have been diagnosed with the Coronavirus.

We don’t have all the answers when it comes to COVID-19, but we can address some of these questions and concerns. Continue reading to learn more about what you can expect from both your social security benefits and the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Can You Still Be Approved for and Collect SSDI Benefits?

The SSA is still conducting business as usual with few exceptions. This means that if you are disabled and unable to earn a living, you can still apply, be approved for, and collect social security disability benefits during the coronavirus pandemic. The SSA will also be able to handle appeals and hearings by phone in an effort to help slow or stop the spread of COVID-19.

If you previously had a hearing scheduled, you can expect the SSA to get in touch with you to schedule a hearing over the phone, which your attorney can also participate in remotely.

Our office is still working, albeit from home, on our client’s cases. We will be handling all documentation digitally or through the mail. We are here to answer any questions you may have over the phone, as the state has ordered that nonessential businesses close their doors to the public and practice social distancing.

Can You Collect Social Security for a Coronavirus Diagnosis?

Unfortunately, there are still too many unanswered questions about the coronavirus and its impact on individuals in the long run. Social security disability benefits are designed to help people with disabilities who are unable to work in any industry. Many victims of the coronavirus are able to fully recover within two to six weeks.

But there are many people who also have required the use of ventilators and other extraordinary measures in order to recover from this disease. That impact is still unknown.

If you were diagnosed with COVID-19 and you will no longer be able to support yourself financially due to permanent effects of the disease, you may be entitled to SSD benefits. You can further discuss your prognosis with our firm to learn more about what options may be available to you.

Contact a Boston Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you have additional questions about how your SSD benefits will be impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, or if you have concerns about your existing claim, contact a reputable Boston social security disability lawyer at Joel H. Schwartz, PC. Our firm can be reached by phone at 617-742-1170 or through the convenient contact form at the bottom of this page.