Attorneys for social security disability

Q: Will SSI benefits stop if you start working again?

A: SSI benefits are intended for those with limited resources and income. If you become employed again, your earnings may reduce or discontinue your SSI benefits. If you earn more than the amount Social Security deems as Substantial Gainful Activity, your SSI benefits may be in jeopardy. The pretax monthly limit this past year was set at just below $1000. It is important that you report all your earnings to Social Security. You are responsible for repaying any benefits that were paid that you should not have received due to income. If you have the desire and ability to work in any capacity, you should not hesitate to pursue that. If you can work more hours, but keep your scheduled work time low to simply keep your benefit payments, your actions may be viewed as fraud committed against Social Security. It may be helpful to seek counsel from a social security lawyer, if you wish to become employed but are worried about the transition from social security disability benefits back to the workforce.

Q: Should you be concerned if Social Security prefers to communicate with your social security lawyer instead of you?

A: The disability case manager will probably wish to deal with your social security lawyer. You should not be concerned if this is the case. Your social security lawyer represents you. Communicating with both you and your social security lawyer can result in miscommunication. You and your attorney are a team. You should be in frequent contact with your social security lawyer regarding your case. That is why you hired representation.

Q: Are veterans who receive compensation through the VA also eligible for disability insurance through Social Security?

A: An individual is eligible to be awarded disability with the Veterans Administration and the Social Security Administration. Any veteran who became disabled after September 30, 2001 is entitled to expedite his application for social security disability benefits. Although the accelerated process should happen without any added paperwork, it is wise to make sure your case manager knows you expect it. If you have a social security lawyer, have him handle it for you.

Q: What can you do to get by financially when your claim for social security disability is still being processed?

A: It can take quite some time for an application for social security disability to go through the review process. Finding ways to get by in the meantime can be worrisome for some claimants. Given the duration some claims take, it is vital to examine and adjust your budget when possible. Try to eliminate all spending that is not mandatory. Even if you can pay for those things now, you need to have a financial cushion should your claim take a year or two. Try to put savings away for the sole purpose of supporting you through the long wait that may happen with your social security disability application. Some claimants restructure their financial obligations to help them through. Some utility companies, for example, offer low income energy assistance programs. Restructuring a mortgage to allow you to access equity or simply lower your monthly payments can be considered. Additionally, many individuals find that they can rely on friends and family for short term loans or other support. Look into aid programs to help with doctor bills and medication. It is important that you do not stop your medical care. Many charities offer assistance to pay for medications. Research any health benefits with the state for which you might qualify. You can also go to a free clinic program for certain things. Talk to your doctor about restructuring payment plans. Explain your situation and be proactive before you get in trouble. Filing for public assistance programs can also be helpful. Some states offer assistance loans that you must pay back once you receive a decision on your social security disability claim. Section 8 housing aid or food stamp programs may be helpful if your wait is long. If your finances are in trouble because of your wait, it may be wise to seek counsel with a lawyer specializing in social security. You may be eligible for dire need assistance with social security. Such assistance can help expedite your claim and offer monetary aid.

Q: Is it possible to apply for social security disability benefits at an actual Social Security office?

A: You can apply for social security disability insurance online, over the phone or in person. It is often recommended that doing it in person is the best method. Meeting with your claims representative will give you one on one communication. The meeting will be your first opportunity to provide background on your claim and medical condition, and the disability case manager will get to see how your condition currently affects your ability to function. This initial meeting sets the stage for the rest of process. To request an initial appointment in person, call Social Security and tell them you would like to apply for social security disability insurance in person. You will then receive a confirmation of the scheduled appointment via mail.

Q: When should you expect notification of a decision on a social security disability case?

A: Decisions on some cases are reached within a few months, while others are not reached for years. A decision for a normal case that has all the required materials is made within 90 days or so.

Q: Do I need to have a social security attorney to apply for disability benefits through social security?

A: Not every disability case requires the services of a social security attorney. A fair number of applications submitted for social security disability benefits are not approved. If your case is not approved and you plan to appeal it, hiring a social security attorney is highly recommended. Hiring a social security attorney does not mean your case will be approved. It does guarantee, however, that your appeal will be executed correctly. The experience a social security attorney can bring to your case will be invaluable during a hearing.

Q: When is it recommended to submit an application for disability benefits with the Social Security Administration?

A: You should apply for benefits as soon as you become unable to work due to your injury. Although the current estimated time of application processing is 90 to 120 days, it is not uncommon for the process to take over 6 months. For this reason, you will want to submit your application as early as you can. The process will take even longer, if your case is not initially approved and you wish to appeal. Seeking the counsel of a social security attorney may be helpful, if you are confused about how and when you should apply.

Q: What is the difference between SSDI and SSI? Q: Are disability benefits and SSI the same thing?

A: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are both benefits through the Social Security Administration offered to individuals who can no longer work due to injury. Individuals are eligible for SSDI, if they have been in the workforce and accrued enough credit to receive benefits. SSI, on the other hand, is based on financial need.

Q: What does the application interview for social security disability benefits entail?

A: The first thing that will happen after you file for social security disability is the scheduling of the initial interview. This interview is the starting point for your case manager to gather pertinent information regarding your injury or condition and your work status. If you have a social security attorney, he or she will help you prepare for that interview. If you do not have a social security attorney, then you will want to make sure you are prepared. Some sort of photo identification, like a drivers license or passport, is required. If you do not have a photo ID, you will be asked a series of questions to confirm who you are. Provide a certified copy of your birth certificate. If you are married, bring your marriage certificate. Similarly, bring documentation that provides proof of any additional dependents. Provide a DD Form 214, if you were part of the armed services. Years of service can often positively affect your benefit payments. Once all the identifying data has been collected, the interviewer will ask you about your work and injury. Be prepared with supporting documentation about your medical condition. Have a list of your doctors. Finally, provide supporting documentation and details about your employment for at least the past decade. Hours worked and salary should be included. Assure you consult with your social security attorney, if applicable, before you go to that first meeting with Social Security. If you do not plan to hire a social security attorney, then just make sure you have all the supporting documentation necessary to complete that initial interview. You can increase the likelihood that your case will be processed in a timely manner, if you make sure you have provided all the necessary information.

Q: How do you file an appeal if your application for social security disability is denied?

A: The next step after a claim for social security disability benefits is not approved is to make a request for reconsideration. Paperwork for reconsideration must be submitted no later than 60 days after the date of denial for your particular case. If you do not file within that timeframe, you will likely have to begin the application process from step one again. You do not necessarily need a social security attorney, but having such an advocate can be helpful during reconsideration. Most claims for social security disability benefits are not awarded until after the next step, which is a hearing. The services of a social security attorney can be extremely beneficial during preparation for and the actual hearing. A request for hearing cannot be made until a case is denied after reconsideration.

Q: What is the biggest mistake made when a claimant is denied social security disability benefits and files an appeal?

A: The biggest mistake is to wait too long to file an appeal. All forms to have a case reconsidered must be received no later than 2 months after the initial claim was denied. The expertise and experience offered by a social security attorney can be invaluable, if you are confused about appealing your claim.