Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be a long and tedious process. The process is even more complicated if you choose to go it alone without the help of a social security attorney. It is advisable to let an attorney handle the hard part of fighting for the financial assistance you deserve while you focus on recovery. An attorney will be with you every step of the way and keep you updated on the progress of your case, no matter how long the process takes.
Social Security Claims Are Complex
When you have a physical or mental disability, you might not have time for anything else, including pursuing a social security claim. Perhaps you have been postponing filing for SSDI and SSI benefits because you do not know where to start. Perhaps you are not even sure whether you meet the disability criteria outlined by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Whatever questions you might have, a disability attorney will answer them and guide you through the application process.
Qualifying for SSDI Benefits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) outlines strict criteria for qualifying for SSDI benefits. To be eligible for these benefits, you must:
Have a qualifying disability — the disability can be either physical or mental. The disability must also be severe enough to prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity. This means that the disability should prevent you from working and earning money. You must prove the following:
- Your mental or physical disability prevents you from continuing with the job you used to do before you suffered the disability
- Your condition inhibits you from doing other types of jobs
- The disability should have lasted for a minimum of twelve months or expected to last for at least twelve months or even lead to death
The SSA also requires the applicant to have worked and contributed to social security for a defined period. You must have accumulated enough work credits to be eligible for SSDI benefits. You accumulate work credits when a portion of your tax contribution goes to the SSA. The specific amount of work credits you require to be eligible for SSDI benefits will depend on your age.
If you have never worked or you do not have enough work credits to qualify for the SSDI benefits, you can apply for the SSI benefits. The SSI benefits can help you cover basic expenses like housing, food, and clothing.
Why You Need a Disability Attorney
The process of applying for social security benefits can be difficult to navigate, especially when you are facing the limitations of your disability. You need the support of a legal professional who knows how the SSA works. You should not despair even if your first application for social security benefits was denied. Most people have their initial application rejected. An attorney will guide you through the appeal process, helping you build a strong case to have your application approved.
Find a Social Security Attorney Oklahoma City
If you need an aggressive social security attorney in Oklahoma City, contact the Social Security Law Center. Our experienced disability attorneys will handle all the challenges you might face in the application process. Get started today
Recent Comments