Social Security Disability

If you have a disability that prevents you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI is a federal program that provides financial assistance to people with disabilities who are unable to work. The program is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

As social security disability lawyers in Texas, Disability Action Advocates has helped many clients apply for and receive SSDI benefits. In this overview, we will cover the application process, qualifying disabilities, and appeals process for denied claims. We will also discuss other programs that may be available to help you if you have a disability, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), long term disability insurance, and Medicare and Medicaid.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI provides monthly benefits to people who are unable to work because of a disability. To be eligible for SSDI, you must have worked long enough and recently enough to earn enough work credits. Work credits are earned by paying Social Security taxes on your income. The number of credits you need to be eligible for SSDI depends on your age at the time you become disabled.

If you are approved for SSDI benefits, you could receive a monthly payment based on your average earnings over your working life. The amount of your payment may depend on your earnings record and how much Social Security taxes you have paid.

Social Security Disability Application

The application process for SSDI can be complex and time-consuming. You can apply online, by phone, or in person at your local SSA office. When you apply, you will need to provide detailed information about your medical condition and work history.

To increase your chances of being approved for SSDI benefits, it is important to provide as much medical evidence as possible to support your claim. This may include medical records, test results, and statements from your doctors.

Long Term Disability Insurance

In addition to SSDI benefits, you may also have long term disability insurance through your employer or purchased on your own. Long term disability insurance provides financial assistance if you are unable to work due to a disability.

If you have long term disability insurance, it is important to review your policy carefully to understand what benefits are available and what the requirements are for filing a claim. Your social security disability lawyer can help you understand your policy and file a claim if necessary.

Medicare and Medicaid

If you are approved for SSDI benefits, you may also be eligible for Medicare after a waiting period of two years. Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for hospital stays, doctor visits, and other medical expenses.

If you have limited income and resources, you may also be eligible for Medicaid, which is a joint federal and state program that provides health care coverage for people with low income.

Qualifying Disabilities for SSDI

To be eligible for SSDI benefits, your disability must meet the SSA's definition of "disability." The SSA considers you disabled if:

• You cannot do the work you did before.

• You cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition.

• Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.

The SSA has a list of medical conditions that automatically qualify as disabilities. If your condition is not on the list, you will need to provide medical evidence to show that your condition meets the definition of disability.

Appeals Process for Denied SSDI Claims

If your SSDI claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process can be lengthy and complex, but it is important to appeal if you believe you were wrongly denied benefits.

The appeals process includes several levels of review, including reconsideration, hearing by an administrative law judge, review by the Appeals Council, and federal court review. Your social security disability lawyer can help guide you through the appeals process and represent you at each level of review.

How Disability Action Advocates Can Help You

If you're dealing with a Social Security Disability case, even the smallest issues can hold significant weight. That's why working with an SSD lawyer is beneficial. The legal requirements and language can be extensive and stressful, but a professional lawyer can clarify each point of the process for your best chance at a favorable outcome.

Our team provides personalized guidance throughout every step of the process, from filing paperwork to representing you at your hearing. We have helped many clients in Dallas and Fort Worth, and we want to help you too. Contact Disability Action Advocates today for seasoned legal representation that reduces stress and improves upon any weaknesses in your current file.