As if suffering a disabling medical condition was not enough, the inability to earn a living and provide for yourself and your family can be earth-shattering. Fortunately, depending on the specific details of your case, you may be able to secure Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.
However, the vast majority of SSD claims are denied. Get help with your SSD claim by reaching out to an Anna Social Security Disability lawyer at Underwood Law Office. Find out which Social Security Disability options may be available when you contact our office for a free consultation.
What Is Social Security Disability?
Social Security Disability is a federal program designed to help those dealing with disabling medical conditions who cannot continue working.
There are a couple of different financial assistance programs that disabled individuals may qualify for, depending on the specific details of their case. Here is more about how Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance works:
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income is a federal program that taxpayers fund. Individuals diagnosed with disabling medical conditions and either unable to work or work enough to earn a living may be eligible for financial assistance.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
The Social Security Disability Insurance program differs slightly from the SSI program. The SSDI program is an insured program. This means individuals who have paid into the SSDI program through their wages by paying Social Security taxes may be eligible for SSDI benefits. However, the SSI and SSDI programs require the applicant to deal with a disabling medical condition.
For a free legal consultation with a social security disability lawyer serving Anna, call (972) 535-6377
Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits in Texas
If you are interested in getting help from the Social Security Administration (SSA), you will need to figure out which program you qualify for. Depending on the specific details of your case, you could be eligible for benefits through SSI or SSDI:
Who Is Eligible for SSI?
To qualify for SSI, you must have a medical disability, blind, or be at least 65 years of age. In addition, you do not need to have paid into any government programs to be eligible for SSI benefits.
However, you must have limited resources and a limited income. Many people obtaining SSI benefits live at or below the federal poverty level.
Who Is Eligible for SSDI?
To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must meet several requirements. First, your disability must be expected to last a minimum of one year or be fatal. The Social Security Administration keeps a list of qualifying medical conditions. If your medical condition is on this list, you will automatically be eligible for benefits.
However, if you have a medical condition that is not on this list, that does not necessarily mean you cannot collect SSDI benefits. Instead, your Social Security disability lawyer will need to provide the SSA with supporting medical documentation that leaves little doubt that your medical condition is disabling.
Work Credits for SSDI
In addition to having a qualifying medical condition or other disability, you must also meet the SSA’s work requirements. In addition, since the SSDI program is insured, you must have paid into it to qualify.
To be eligible, you must have earned at least 40 work credits, 20 of which were earned over the last ten years. You can earn up to four work credits per year. This begins from the date you were diagnosed with your disabling condition. Each work credit is earned when you make $1,510 in self-employment or wages as of 2022.
SSDI benefits are generally available until you can return to work. However, there may be a maximum amount of time allowable depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
You might be eligible for work incentives that will allow you to return to work and obtain coverage of your medical expenses while you continue receiving benefits. You can learn more about what SSDI benefits you may be eligible for when you contact your lawyer for help with your application or Social Security Disability denial.
Anna Social Security Disability Lawyer Near Me (972) 535-6377
What Happens if My Disability Claim Is Denied?
Social Security Disability claims, for both the SSI and SSDI programs, are denied far more frequently than you might have previously thought. In fact, up to 70% of all Social Security Disability claims are denied by SSA representatives. This is partly because the SSA does not want to approve claims for individuals who may be capable of working.
Unfortunately, this burden of proof is high. Generally, your denial could be overturned by providing your SSA representative with the evidence needed to prove that you have met the eligibility requirements.
However, if you must move forward with a formal appeal, your disability attorney will be by your side to help you do so. There are several levels to the SSD appeals process. They are as follows:
- Request a reconsideration
- Request a hearing with an administrative law judge
- Request a review by the Appeals Council
- Request a Federal Court review
Generally, most appeals are overturned or resolved at the hearing with an administrative law judge level of appeals. However, should it become necessary, your SSD lawyer will be prepared to pursue your case all the way to a federal court review.
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Contact an Anna Social Security Disability Attorney for Help with Your Claim Today
When your disability has made it impossible for you to get back to work, you may be looking into your financial assistance options. Social Security Disability benefits could be available to those who qualify. Find out whether you are eligible for SSI or SSDI benefits when you meet with an Anna Social Security Disability lawyer at Underwood Law Office.
Our firm proudly offers free case reviews to people living with disabilities across Anna and surrounding cities. Take advantage of this opportunity when you call our office or fill out our convenient contact form.
Call or text (972) 535-6377 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form