According to the Social Security Administration, studies show that a twenty (20) year old worker has a three in ten chance of becoming disabled before reaching retirement age. The Social Security Administration pays disability benefits through two programs: Social Security Disability Insurance Program (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI). Social Security Disability benefits can be paid to people who cannot work because they have a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Social Security Disability benefits are only available to those who are determined to be fully disabled on a long term basis. Certain family members of disabled workers can also receive benefits through Social Security Disability so long as the requirements are satisfied.
Since Social Security Disability is a specialized area of the law, it is recommended that you consult with an experienced attorney if you are considering making a claim for disability.
Our law firm encourages people to apply online or in person at a Social Security Office; however, it is usually beneficial to speak to a disability attorney prior to making your initial application. If the initial application is denied, there is a strict time limit for filing a reconsideration; and if reconsideration is denied, there is a strict time limit for filing an appeal. We strongly urge anyone who is denied Social Security Disability on the first application to consult with an experienced attorney to determine their rights. We are available to help you if you need to apply for reconsideration or to appeal from the denial of reconsideration following your initial application. Please note that all deadlines are set forth in correspondence that will be provided to you by Social Security after your initial application. If you have been denied on an initial application, please contact our law firm for further advice.