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Conway Lawyer Helping Clients Win Social Security Disability Benefits
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits were established to provide financial assistance to people who are unable to work as a result of mental or physical disabilities. These benefits can help disabled individuals cover their living expenses and make ends meet when their disabilities interfere with their ability to earn an income.
Millions of people benefit from the SSDI program, but unfortunately, getting approved for these benefits is not easy. If you are in need of disability benefits, it’s best to seek help from the experienced Conway SSDI attorneys at Denton & Zachary, PLLC.
Do I Qualify For SSDI Benefits?
There are two conditions that you must meet in order to qualify for SSDI benefits:
- You must meet the legal definition of disability, and
- You must have enough work credits.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a disability as a mental or physical condition that prevents you from engaging in any substantial work and is expected to either result in death or last for over a year. If your condition meets this criteria, the SSA will consider you disabled.
You must also have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits. You earn work credits by working, earning an income, and paying Social Security taxes. The amount of income you will need to earn to obtain a work credit varies from year-to-year, but you can only earn a maximum of four work credits per year.
Most applicants will need at least 40 work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits. However, the number of work credits needed varies depending on how old the applicant was when they first became disabled. The younger you were, the fewer credits you will need to qualify.
How to Apply For SSDI Benefits
It’s important to apply for SSDI benefits as soon as you become disabled. You have the option of applying for benefits online, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. Work with your attorney to determine the best way to apply for benefits.
You will need to provide certain information and documentation when applying for SSDI benefits, including:
- Medical records, including lab results, doctor’s notes, treatment plans, and medications prescribed
- Workers’ compensation benefit information, if applicable
- Your most recent W-2 form or self-employment tax forms
- Summary of your work history
- Dates of visits to doctors, hospitals, and clinics
Your attorney can assist with the process of gathering these documents to ensure you submit a complete application.
Why Are SSDI Applications Denied?
The SSA denies most initial applications for SSDI benefits. There are a number of reasons why so many initial applications are denied, including:
- You are working and earning too much money to meet the SSA’s definition of disabled.
- Your mental or physical condition is minor or short-term, so it is not considered a disability.
- You are not cooperating with the SSA’s requests for more information.
- You did not follow your physician’s treatment orders.
- You did not complete the appropriate forms or submit the necessary documentation.
- You did not provide enough evidence to prove that you meet the SSA’s definition of disabled.
The attorneys at Denton & Zachary, PLLC can help you avoid the mistakes or errors that often lead to denials. We will ensure you complete the application, submit the appropriate documentation, and provide the evidence that the SSA needs to see in order to approve your claim.
What Should I Do If My SSDI Application is Denied?
Don’t give up the fight for SSDI benefits simply because your initial application was denied. You have the right to file an appeal with the SSDI within 60 days from the date you were notified of the denial.
There are four levels of appeal, including:
- Reconsideration
- Administrative law judge hearing
- Appeals Council review
- Federal court review
Your claim may be approved at any of these stages. This is your last chance to obtain benefits, so there is no room for error. Let our attorneys guide you through the appeals process and lead the fight for benefits on your behalf.
Book A Free Consultation With Our SSDI Attorneys in Conway Today
Don’t start the process of applying for SSDI benefits without seeking legal representation from the disability attorneys at Denton & Zachary, PLLC. Let us assist you with every step in the process, from the initial application to the appeal of the SSA’s decision. We are committed to helping you secure the benefits you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call (501) 725-8099 or submit your information using the form on this website today.
