Experienced Social Security Disability Benefits Attorney
If you have been denied social security disability (SSD) benefits, you may wonder how you can afford your medical bills and other expenses. With over 20 years of experience representing clients in these matters, I understand how difficult this can be and look forward to resolving your claim quickly so you can move forward with your life.
This can be a lengthy process, making it very important to move quickly in choosing a lawyer to guide you through the process. Contact me today for a free initial consultation.
A majority of these claims go through the appeals process, making it very important to work with a knowledgeable lawyer. I assist clients during the initial application and subsequent appeals process for legal issues related to:
- Social security disability (SSD)
- Supplemental security income (SSI)
- Social security disability insurance (SSDI)
Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
To qualify for SSD, you must meet the requirements for receiving disability insurance, including having a record of past employment. You must have a mental or physical disability severe enough to last for at least a year that prevents you from engaging in gainful employment.
While similar to the requirements for SSD, qualifying for SSI does not require you to have been employed prior to receiving benefits. These benefits are designed as supplemental incomes for individuals who are unable to work as a result of their disability. Dependents can also be eligible for SSI.
What Is the Process for Securing Benefits?
On average, about 70 percent of initial applications for SSD and SSI are denied. If you have been denied, you have 60 days to appeal, which consists of requesting a hearing before an administrative law judge. It can take up to a year between your request and your hearing, making it important to act as quickly as possible. During this time, I work with you to gather medical information and other evidence to prove your need for benefits.
If your appeal is denied, you have the option of appealing to the Appeals Council, which will review your case for errors by a judge. It can take multiple years for your case to reach the Appeals Council. For more information on SSD and SSI benefit claims, contact me today for a free initial consultation.
Donald Williford, Attorney at Law
114 Radcliffe Street
Bristol, PA 19007
Telephone: 215-785-3241
Fax: 215-785-6315
Alternative Fax: 877-817-8991