Fayetteville Social Security Disability Lawyers

When health limitations prevent you from working, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can provide financial stability during difficult times. However, the application process is often challenging, with strict requirements and high denial rates that leave many qualified applicants without the benefits they deserve. At Wilmoth Law Firm, our Fayetteville Social Security Disability lawyers have helped numerous Arkansas residents successfully obtain the benefits they need.

The path to receiving Social Security Disability benefits involves numerous steps, substantial documentation, and adherence to specific timelines. Many initial applications face rejection, not due to lack of qualification, but because of procedural errors or insufficient medical evidence. We can guide you through each stage of the process, from initial application to appeals if necessary.

What Qualifies Someone for Social Security Disability Benefits?

To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must demonstrate that you have a medical condition that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity. This condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Additionally, you need sufficient work credits earned through previous employment and payments into the Social Security system.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a “Listing of Impairments” that outlines medical conditions that automatically qualify for disability benefits if properly documented. If your condition is not on this list, you can still qualify by proving that your impairment significantly limits your ability to work. Our Fayetteville Social Security Disability lawyers can determine if you meet these requirements and assist in gathering the appropriate medical evidence to support your claim.

How Long Does the Social Security Disability Application Process Take?

The timeline for processing Social Security Disability applications depends on individual circumstances. Initial applications typically take three to five months for review. If denied, which happens to approximately 65 percent of first-time applicants, the reconsideration phase adds another three to four months.

If reconsideration is unsuccessful, requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge adds significant time, often 12-18 months in Arkansas, due to backlogs. Throughout this extended process, proper documentation and legal representation can help prevent unnecessary delays.

What Happens if My Disability Application Is Denied?

Receiving a denial letter is not the end of your case; you have 60 days from the date of denial to file an appeal. The appeals process includes several potential levels:

Reconsideration: Your application is reviewed by a different examiner.
Administrative Hearing: Presenting your case before an Administrative Law Judge.
Appeals Council Review: If the judge denies your claim.
Federal Court Appeal: The final level of appeal available.

Statistics show that applicants with legal representation are significantly more likely to succeed during appeals, particularly at the hearing level. Our Fayetteville Social Security Disability lawyers present cases effectively, cross-examine medical and vocational experts, and address any concerns raised by the judge.

How Do I Afford a Fayetteville Social Security Disability Lawyer?

Many people worry about legal fees when considering representation for disability claims. At Wilmoth Law Firm, we operate on a contingency fee basis for Social Security Disability cases. This means you pay no upfront costs for our services.

Federal regulations limit attorney fees in Social Security Disability cases to 25 percent of your past-due benefits, with a maximum cap set by the Social Security Administration. If we do not help you obtain benefits, you do not owe us legal fees for our representation. This arrangement makes legal help accessible regardless of your current financial situation and aligns our interests with yours—we succeed only when you do.

What Documentation Will I Need for My Disability Claim?

Proper documentation forms the foundation of a successful disability claim. Important records include:

Medical records from all treating physicians.
Laboratory and test results.
Medication history and treatment plans.
Work history and job descriptions.
Documentation of how your condition affects daily activities.
Statements from healthcare providers about your limitations.
Detailed functional capacity evaluations and assessments.
Specialized medical opinions related to your specific condition.
Evidence of ongoing treatment compliance and outcomes.
Records of hospitalizations or emergency care visits.
Mental health evaluations, if applicable.

Our Fayetteville Social Security Disability lawyers can identify gaps in your documentation and develop strategies to strengthen your application. We maintain communication with healthcare providers and obtain detailed medical opinions. That information addresses the specific criteria the Social Security Administration evaluates when determining disability status.

How Do Social Security Disability Back Payments Work?

If your disability claim is approved, you may be entitled to back payments covering the period from your established onset date of disability through the approval date (minus a five-month waiting period). For SSDI claims, back payments can cover up to 12 months prior to your application date if your disability began before that time.

The calculation of back payments can be complicated, particularly when determining the established onset date of disability. Our team advocates for the earliest justifiable onset date based on your medical records and work history, potentially increasing your back payment amount.

How Does Working Part-Time Affect Disability Benefits?

Many disability applicants wonder if they can work part-time while receiving benefits. The Social Security Administration does allow limited work through what they call “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) thresholds. In 2025, the monthly SGA limit is $1,550 for non-blind individuals.

Working below SGA levels may be permitted, but income must be reported accurately. The SSA also offers work incentive programs like Trial Work Periods that allow beneficiaries to test their ability to return to work without immediately losing benefits. Our Fayetteville Social Security Disability lawyers can explain how these programs function and help you avoid unintentional benefit termination while attempting to work.

Let Our Experienced Fayetteville Social Security Disability Lawyers at Wilmoth Law Firm Handle the Red Tape

Living with a disability presents numerous challenges, but obtaining the benefits you deserve should not add to your burden. Let our Fayetteville Social Security Disability lawyers at Wilmoth Law Firm worry about the details so you can focus on your health and well-being. For a free consultation, call 479-443-8080 or complete our online form. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.