Each year the Social Security Administration (SSA) receives around two million applications for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Of these applications, approximately only a quarter are approved. Besides these low approval rates, it can take over seven months for a disability benefits application to be processed.
The Social Security system can be confusing and frustrating. If you are disabled and need monthly Social Security benefits, a Pennsylvania Disability Lawyer can help. Disability attorneys know the system and they use their familiarity with the forms, procedures, and eligibility criteria to help their clients get the benefits they need.
Navigating the Social Security System
Unfortunately, navigating the Social Security system is not straightforward. Understanding whether you are eligible for benefits, and which benefits to apply for, are the first big hurdles to your disability claim.
SSDI and SSI are available to disabled individuals. With both of these benefits, you must meet the SSA’s definition of impairment for your disability. In order to receive SSDI, you will need to have a certain number of work credits based on your age. SSI eligibility, on the other hand, is based on your financial resources. Your disability attorney can help you understand whether you are “impaired” for purposes of receiving disability benefits and evaluate your situation to determine your eligibility for either SSDI or SSI.
After making an eligibility determination, your lawyer can then help you file your application. Filing can be a time-consuming process that includes identifying medical evidence, required documents, and accurately filling out the Social Security forms.
Representation for You
A Pennsylvania disability attorney is there to represent your interests. They will communicate with medical providers and the SSA on your behalf, advocating for your interests. This can provide you with reassurance and gives you time to focus on yourself.
Moreover, they use their experience, knowledge, and resources to file your claim accurately and efficiently, reducing unnecessary delays and denials. Adequately and persuasively explaining your situation and how the relevant laws and rules apply can be critical to getting your Social Security application approved.
Appealing a Denied Disability Claim
If Social Security denies your claim, your disability attorney can handle the appeal. Having an experienced Pennsylvania lawyer by your side can be critical during this process.
Your attorney will review the reasons why your application was denied, guide you through the next steps, and create a plan to move forward with your claim.
Do I Need a Pennsylvania Disability Lawyer?
Seeking Social Security Disability Benefits can leave you with more questions than answers. Disability lawyers in Pennsylvania are there for you. Whether you don’t understand the forms, requirements, or process, legal representation can give you the assistance you need to proceed with your benefits application.
If you are concerned about the cost of hiring legal representation, you are not alone. Disability attorneys are paid on a contingency fee basis, meaning they are only paid if your disability application is approved. Additionally, the amount of fees a Social Security lawyer can charge is capped by the federal government at 25% of back benefits received, with a maximum fee of $7,200.
If you are disabled and unable to work, you may be eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits. Speaking with an experienced disability attorney can help you understand your eligibility for Social Security benefits and how to proceed with your application.
