Social Security Disability
Washington County Social Security Disability Lawyer
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a severe disability. The program is funded through payroll taxes and is designed to help those who have paid into the system during their working years. If you are unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death, you may be eligible for SSDI benefits.
If you are no longer able to work due to a disability, you need the experience of a Washington County Social Security Disability lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm to help you secure the benefits you deserve.
What Are the Qualifications for Social Security Disability?
You may qualify for SSI benefits in Arkansas if you are unable to work due to a disability. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict requirements you must meet to receive benefits, which include:
- You must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
- Your condition must meet the SSA definition of a disability.
- You must have worked and paid into Social Security long enough to earn sufficient work credits unless you are applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is based on financial need.
- The SSA will evaluate whether you can perform any type of work, not just your previous job.
- You must provide medical evidence to support your claim, including records from doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers.
- If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.
How Long Is the SSDI Application Process?
The SSDI application process can take several months or even longer, depending on your case. On average, initial decisions take about three to five months, but delays can occur if the agency needs additional medical or other information. If your claim is denied and you need to appeal, the process can take much longer, sometimes over a year, especially if your case reaches the hearing stage.
What Happens if My SSDI Application Is Denied?
If your SSDI application is denied, do not be discouraged. Many applicants are initially denied but later approved through the appeals process. You have the right to challenge the decision and provide additional evidence to support your claim during the appeals process, which includes:
- Request for Reconsideration: You have 60 days to ask the SSA to review your case again.
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before a judge who will review your case and hear your testimony.
- Appeals Council Review: If the judge denies your claim, you can ask the Social Security Appeals Council to review the decision. They may uphold the denial, send your case back for another hearing, or approve your benefits.
- Federal Court Review: If all previous appeals fail, you can file a lawsuit in federal court to challenge the denial.
There are several reasons why an SSDI application may be denied. Some common reasons include insufficient medical evidence, failure to follow prescribed treatments, and not meeting the SSA’s definition of disability. Additionally, if you earn more than the SGA limit or have not earned enough work credits, your application may be denied. It is important to understand the reasons for denial and address them in your appeal to improve your chances of success.
How Can I Improve My Chances of Being Approved for SSDI Benefits?
Applying for SSDI benefits can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to improve your chances of approval. The SSA has strict requirements, and providing clear, thorough documentation is essential. Ways to improve your chances of receiving SSDI benefits include:
- Submit detailed records from doctors, hospitals, and specialists showing the severity of your condition and its effects on your ability to work.
- Continue medical treatment and follow the doctor’s recommendations, showing you are addressing your condition.
- Double-check your application for missing or incorrect information.
- Include detailed work history and explain how your disability prevents you from performing your past jobs or any other type of work.
- Respond to SSA requests for additional information quickly to keep your application moving forward.
- Consult an experienced Washington County Social Security disability lawyer to guide you through the process, help you gather strong evidence, and represent you in appeals if needed.
Can I Work While Receiving Social Security Disability Benefits?
You can work while receiving SSDI benefits, but there are important limitations. The Social Security Administration’s “Ticket to Work” program allows beneficiaries to explore returning to work without immediately losing benefits. You can start with a trial work period, during which you can earn any amount without affecting your benefits.
After that, there is an extended eligibility period where you can continue working as long as your earnings stay below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. To avoid problems, you must report your earnings to the SSA and follow their guidelines to continue working and receiving benefits.
Am I Eligible for Other Benefits?
In addition to SSDI, you may be eligible for other benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which provides financial assistance to individuals who are blind, disabled, or aged 65 or older with limited income and resources.
If approved for SSDI, you may also be eligible for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. Medicare provides health insurance coverage for hospital stays, medical services, and prescription medications.
How Can a Washington County Social Security Disability Lawyer Help Me?
Navigating the SSDI application or appeals process can be challenging, and having an experienced attorney by your side can make a significant difference. A Washington County Social Security Disability lawyer can help you gather and organize the necessary documentation, complete the application form accurately, and represent you during the appeals process.
A knowledgeable and skilled attorney can also provide guidance on how to present your case effectively to increase your chances of receiving benefits. By having legal representation, you can remain focused on your health while your attorney manages the legal aspects of your claim.
Choosing the right law firm to handle your SSDI case is an important decision. Wilmoth Law Firm is dedicated to helping clients in Northwest Arkansas navigate the complex legal and application process. We understand the challenges you face and are committed to providing personalized, compassionate service. From the initial application to the appeals process, we work tirelessly to help you secure the benefits you deserve.
Get the SSDI Benefits You Deserve – Contact a Washington County Social Security Disability Lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one are disabled and struggling to receive SSDI benefits, a Washington County Social Security Disability lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm can guide you through the process. Call 479-443-8080 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.