Are you trying to get Social Security Disability benefits and feeling stuck? Whether you’re preparing your first application or facing a frustrating denial, you need and deserve the support of an experienced professional to move your claim forward. The team at Fessenden Laumer & DeAngelo, PLLC, understands the challenges you face, and we’re ready to help. Our Social Security Disability lawyers can review your application, gather strong medical evidence, and represent you during appeals if necessary. Contact us today for an initial consultation to learn more about how we can assist you.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides financial support to people who cannot work due to a qualifying medical condition. These benefits come from payroll taxes that US workers pay during their employment. You must have worked enough years and earned enough work credits to qualify for these benefits, though some people can qualify from their spouse’s work credits.
SSDI helps you cover basic living expenses if a disability prevents you from engaging in steady work. The amount you receive depends on your work history and how much you paid into Social Security. The purpose of SSDI is to provide beneficiaries with consistent financial support so they can focus on managing their health.
You must meet certain criteria to qualify for Social Security Disability. First, you need proof of a medical condition that significantly limits your ability to work. This condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Second, you need enough work credits, which are based on your past earnings and work history. Most people need at least 40 credits (20 from the last ten years). However, younger workers might not need as many credits. Finally, you must show the Social Security Administration (SSA) that you cannot perform your previous job or adjust to other types of work due to your condition.
Each phase of the Social Security Disability claims process requires attention to detail and careful documentation. Here are the typical steps involved in filing a claim:
Strong documentation is key to a successful SSDI claim. You will need medical records that clearly show your diagnosis, treatments, and how your condition limits your ability to work. Work history records are also important. These should outline your past jobs, job duties, and how your condition affects your ability to perform those tasks. Personal statements from friends, family, or coworkers can also help explain how your condition impacts daily life. Accurate and complete documentation helps the SSA understand your situation and make an informed decision about your claim.
Many initial SSDI applications get denied. According to the SSA, only 21 percent of first-time applicants are approved for benefits on average. Some denials result from missing information, while others relate to medical evidence or eligibility requirements. Here are some of the most common reasons why SSDI applications are denied:
If the SSA denies your claim, you have the right to appeal. The appeals process includes several stages, starting with a reconsideration. During this step, a new reviewer examines your application and any updated evidence. If your application gets denied again, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge, who will review your case and listen to your explanation. If the judge denies your claim, you can request a review by the Appeals Council. As a last resort, you can file a lawsuit in federal court. Each stage of the appeals process has strict requirements and filing deadlines, so it’s best to act quickly and work with an experienced attorney to keep your appeal moving forward.
A Social Security Disability lawyer can prepare a strong claim on your behalf and handle the appeals process if necessary. They can gather strong medical evidence on your behalf and complete paperwork accurately to ensure your application meets SSA requirements. If the SSA denies your claim, your attorney can identify why and help you build a stronger case for appeal. They can also represent you at hearings, explain complex legal terms, and present arguments to support your claim. Having a lawyer can reduce stress and considerably improve your chances of approval.
If you need help with a Social Security Disability claim in Allegany, Fessenden Laumer & DeAngelo, PLLC, is here to help. Our team can review your case, answer your questions, and guide you through the claims process. Call us today at (716) 484-1010 or contact us online to arrange your initial consultation session and discuss what we can do for you.
