The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) offers protection against discrimination for people with disabilities in all areas of life. Unfortunately, this does not always mean that employers and businesses comply with the law. When it comes to getting the disability benefits you need and deserve, having an attorney on your side can make all the difference. In this blog post, we will explore some of the many reasons why you need a disability benefits attorney. From fighting for your rights to navigating the complex legal system, an attorney can help you get the benefits you need to live your best life.
What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a government-provided insurance program that pays benefits to people who are unable to work due to a disability. The program is funded by payroll taxes and is available to workers who have paid into the system. To qualify for SSDI benefits, applicants must have a severe impairment that prevents them from working and be expected to be out of work for at least 12 months.
Additionally, applicants must have worked for a certain amount of time in order to qualify. The amount of time varies depending on the applicant’s age, but generally speaking, workers need to have worked for at least five years in order to be eligible. Keep in mind that SSDI is different from Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, which is a need-based program that provides benefits to disabled people with limited income and resources.
The Importance of Hiring a Disability Benefits Attorney
If you are disabled and unable to work, you may be entitled to receive Social Security disability benefits. However, the process of applying for and obtaining these benefits can be complex and time-consuming. A disability benefits attorney can help you navigate the Social Security disability system and ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to. No matter if you’re looking for a social security disability lawyer in New Jersey or in California, getting in touch with a disability benefits attorney will help you get the process moving in the right direction. Social Security disability benefits are intended to provide financial assistance to those who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. In order to qualify for these benefits, you must first prove that your disability is severe enough that it prevents you from working. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a five-step evaluation process to determine if an individual is disabled.
If you are found to be disabled at any point during the evaluation process, the SSA will consider your age, education, past work experience, and any other skills you may have that could help you adjust to other types of work. If the SSA determines that there is no other type of work you can do, they will approve your claim for benefits.
The process of applying for and obtaining Social Security disability benefits can be complex and time-consuming. It is important to note that the SSA denies the majority of initial applications for benefits. If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process can be lengthy, and it is often necessary to hire a disability attorney to represent you. Hiring a disability benefits attorney gives you the best chance of successfully obtaining the Social Security disability benefits you need and deserve.
How to Qualify for SSDI Benefits
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you must first have worked in jobs covered by Social Security. Then you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability.
To meet the first requirement, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security long enough — usually 10 years — to earn enough work credits. Work credits are based on your total yearly wages or self-employment income. You can earn up to four credits each year. The number of work credits you need to qualify for SSDI benefits depends on your age when you become disabled.
To meet the second requirement, your medical condition must be severe enough that it:
- Keeps you from doing any substantial work
- Is expected to last at least one year or result in death
If your application is approved, your SSDI benefit amount will be based on your lifetime average earnings covered by Social Security.
How a Disability Benefits Attorney Can Help You Win Your Claim
If you have been out of work for more than six months and are struggling to pay your bills, you may be wondering if you should hire a disability benefits attorney. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies two-thirds of all initial disability claims, so the odds are not in your favor.
A disability benefits attorney can help you navigate the complex claims process and give you the best chance at winning your claim. Here are four ways an attorney can help you:
- An attorney can help you gather the evidence you need to win your claim.
- An attorney can help you fill out your application correctly and avoid common mistakes that can lead to a denial.
- An attorney can represent you at your hearing and ensure that the judge hears all of the evidence in your favor.
- An attorney can help you appeal a denial, if necessary.
The SSA denies most claims because applicants do not have enough medical evidence to prove their disability. A disability benefits attorney will know what kind of evidence is needed to win your claim and can help you gather it.
An experienced disability benefits attorney will also know how to properly fill out your application and avoid common mistakes that could lead to a denial. For example, many claimants forget to list all of their medical conditions or fail to provide enough information about their work history.
If your claim is denied, an attorney can represent you at your hearing and make sure that the judge
There is no doubt that if you are seeking disability benefits, having an attorney on your side can make a big difference. The above proof shows just how important it is to have an experienced and knowledgeable disability benefits attorney by your side. If you are ready to take the next step in securing the benefits you need and deserve, schedule a consultation today!