If you have been injured, or you are currently suffering from a condition or illness that keeps you from working, you might be qualified to collect Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security Disability program is intended to protect laborers and their families. However, immense roadblocks may keep you from obtaining the funds you need and are owed.
If you are currently being denied or have been denied Social Security Disability benefits, or are looking for direction in this extensive process, Mestayer Law Firm has you covered. When you contact Mestayer Law Firm, you are connected to an experienced social security lawyer that can help you build a well-structured case to obtain the money you deserve.
To completely understand Social Security Disability, it is first critical to understand the Social Security Program. The Social Security Administration provides the Social Security Program, which is a federal benefit program. This program assists eligible people with serious illnesses or injuries and who are unable to return to work.
Disability Insurance Benefits (SSD or SSDI)
An SSD benefit is a frequent type of benefit sought from the SSA. The benefit covers millions of previous associates across the United States that have become disabled. The benefit amount obtained from the SSD is based on the applicant’s income prior to disability and the applicant’s employment record.
Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC)
These benefits apply to children between the ages of 18 and 22. The children should be currently suffering from a disability. They could qualify for a parent’s disability insurance benefits if a parent is deceased or currently receiving SSD or retirement benefits from the Social Security Program.
Disabled Widow or Widower Benefits (DWB)
If a widow or widower over the age of 50 becomes disabled within seven years of a spouse’s death, they might be able to obtain the benefits. The widow(er) must have been married to the deceased for at least ten years to be considered.
Eligibility for Social Security Disability Benefits
The SSA has rigorous standards for determining who is eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. In general, those receiving SSD meet the following qualifications:
- They are under the age of 65.
- They have worked for five of the last ten years as of the date of the disability (however, this may be waived if applicants are twenty-two years old or younger).
- They have a condition that prevents them from being employed; their illness or condition that is expected to be long-term.
If you do not meet these criteria or the other criteria listed on the SSA’s list of disabling medical conditions that qualify for SSD, do not worry! If you meet other criteria, you could still be approved for benefits.
When you decide to apply for Social Security Disability, you can complete the application online or at a local SSA office. During the application process, the Social Security Association will review your application to ensure you meet technical requirements. Once you pass this stage, your application is handed to the Alabama Disability Determination Services. That office makes the final decision.
About 70% of first-time Social Security applicants receive a claim denial. These denials can be easily appealed with the assistance of a social security and disability attorney, who understands the process and laws. With Mystayer Law Firm, our attorneys can help you fill out an initial application as well as appeal a denial. For more information, schedule an appointment with our skilled social security and disability attorneys today, and we will begin to build your case!