Disability can happen to anyone.
Most people do not ever think disability can happen to them. However, chances are very good you will become disabled at some point during your lifetime. According to the social security administration, a 20-year-old worker has a 3-in-10 chance of becoming disabled before reaching full retirement age.
Who can get Social Security benefits?
Social Security pays benefits to people who cannot work due to a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Federal law requires this very strict definition of disability. While some programs give money to people with partial disability or short-term disability, Social Security does not. Certain family members of disabled workers also can receive money from Social Security.
When should I hire an attorney?
Most lawyers will tell you to wait until you are denied before hiring an attorney. I do not. I will help you from the beginning of the process until its over. I will file your disability claim for you after a phone meeting or a meeting in my office. I have found that you have a greater chance of success early if you get an attorney involved in the beginning. Call and make an appointment and let my office assist you and take the worry and stress out of the process.
What happens if I am denied benefits?
You have a right to appeal a denial of your benefits. You must file your appeal within 60 days from the date you receive the denial letter. Generally, there are four levels of appeal: Reconsideration; Hearing by an administrative law judge; Review by the Appeals Council; Federal Court review.
What is disability based upon?
Disability under Social Security is based on the inability to work. The SSA considers an individual disabled if, due to an established medical condition, he or she: 1) meets or equals one of the designated medical Listings (criteria that are presumed to preclude work for most people); or 2) you cannot perform any of your work that was done before, or 3) you cannot make an adjustment to other work.
How am I paid to represent you?
I only get paid if you are awarded a lump sum back pay award. My fee is simply a percentage of your back pay and that’s all. The consultation is always free and I don’t get paid unless we win your case. And, I really hate losing.