Social Security
Social Security Benefits
Becoming disabled is not a topic many enjoying discussing. But, the chances of you becoming disabled are greater than you realize. Studies show that one out of every four young workers will become disabled at some point in his or her lifetime. While most people spend time working to succeed in their jobs, few think ahead to ensure that they have a safety net to fall back on if they are not able to work. This is where Social Security comes in. Social Security pays cash benefits to people who are unable to work for a year or more because of a disability. Benefits continue until a person is able to work again on a regular basis.
Social Security pays disability benefits under two programs: the Social Security disability insurance program (SSDI) and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. The medical requirements for disability payments and the determination of an applicant’s disability are the same under both programs. Additionally, eligibility for SSDI is based on the amount of prior work, but SSI is awarded on the basis of an applicant’s financial need.
The Process
The process of determining disability begins when a person applies for SSDI or SSI at a Social Security Administration (SSA) field office, either in person, by phone, online or through the mail. The application includes a description of impairments, names and addresses of your medical providers, and dates of treatment as well as other information relating to your disability.
Once your local SSA field office verifies your earnings and coverage information, information concerning your medical treatment will be obtained.
If you’re denied Social Security Benefits, you may request a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The ALJ will hear your testimony, review your medical records, and or request medical or vocational evidence in opposition to your claim.
If you believe you have a Social Security claim, it’s important that you hire a lawyer who has experience with Social Security disability laws.
At the Ritchie Law Firm, we have represented individuals with Social Security Disability claims for more than 45 years. Our clients are like family to us, and we’re committed to getting the results you deserve.
Get your free case evaluation today!
You’ll get to meet the people you’d be working with, go through your claim, and go over our processes. We work most cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning that we only get paid if we win.
Call (884) 698-3261 or simply fill out the form below to schedule your free case evaluation.
Not sure if you need to hire a lawyer for your Social Security Disability claim? You can download our Social Security Disability e-book to learn more.