Social Security Disability

If you have a physical or mental disability and have paid Social Security taxes during your recent work life, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. In some cases, if you have been injured or disabled on the job, you may be entitled to SSDI as well as workers' compensation benefits. If you have applied for disability benefits and been denied, don't be discouraged: most first time applicants are denied. At the law office of Keches & Mallen, we work closely with clients in preparing all necessary paperwork and information related to Social Security disability benefits. Our lawyers can refer clients to medical specialists who can document your disability and offer testimony on your behalf.

If you have questions concerning disability benefits, who qualifies, and whether you can return to work, contact social security disability benefits attorneys at Keches & Mallen today.

Determining Eligibility for Social Security Disability Benefits

To determine if you are eligible for SSDI, the Social Security Administration considers your age, education, past work experience, and your medical condition. You must be able to show, through medical documentation, that you are disabled from all employment or that you expect to be disabled for 12 months or longer. Importantly, you must have paid into the Social Security system for a sufficient amount of time to be eligible for these benefits.

Depending on the nature of your injury or medical condition, a claim for SSDI benefits can be filed soon after the injury or condition is known, or any time after that. Although it is best to consult with an attorney when considering an SSDI claim, the initial filing can be done at your local Social Security office. Be sure you provide accurate information about the date when your disability from work began. In addition, you will be required to give the Social Security Administration the names and addresses of all physicians and medical providers who have treated you.

Denial of Social Security Disability Benefits - The Appeals Process

Usually, you will receive a decision within 30 to 90 days from the filing of your claim. If your application is denied, you should promptly notify your attorney so that an appeal, called a Request for Reconsideration, can be filed in a timely manner. After the Request for Reconsideration is filed, the Social Security Administration will take a second look at your eligibility for disability benefits. At this time, additional evidence may be presented. If you are denied at this stage, your attorney can assist you in filing a Request for Hearing, which must be filed within 60 days of the notice of denial.

At the hearing, you will be required to appear and testify before an Administrative Law Judge. This judge will make an independent determination on the merits of your claim, and a written decision will be sent to you. If the decision is in your favor, you are entitled to monthly disability benefits according to Social Security rules and regulations. If you are receiving workers' compensation or some other form of public disability benefits, your Social Security disability benefits may be affected. One of Keches & Mallen's experienced attorneys can help you navigate the Social Security Disability process to be sure that your rights are protected and that all available benefits are maximized for you and your family.

Questions? Contact the Law Office of Keches & Mallen Today

Filing for social security disability benefits can be complicated and confusing. We can help you at all stages of your application and ensure you have the benefit of medical evidence and preparation on your side. To schedule an appointment and discuss your case, contact the law office of Keches & Mallen today.