Even if a person is legally incapacitated, what is required to receive Social Security disability?

To receive Social Security disability benefits, an individual must submit an application and go through an approval process, regardless of their legal status or incapacity. This requirement is in place because Social Security Administration (SSA) needs to evaluate the individual's specific circumstances and the nature of their disability to determine eligibility.

Even if a person is deemed legally incapacitated, this does not exempt them from the need to formally apply for benefits. The SSA examines medical records, work history, and other pertinent information to assess whether the criteria for disability benefits are met. Thus, simply having a legal status of incapacity or being unable to handle one's affairs does not automatically grant entitlement to benefits without following the necessary application procedure.