Call (731) 424-3315 to schedule an appointment!

Social Security Disability

Let us help you navigate through the Social Security Disability maze. We are dedicated to personal service to resolve your personal matter. We want to see you receive and get the benefits to which you are entitled. If you have become disabled or can no longer perform the work you have done in the past, it is time to file for disability benefits. Facing a disabling condition can be challenging both physically and emotionally. Whether you are coping with a newly-diagnosed illness or struggling with a degenerative illness that has progressed and is causing additional limitations to your daily activities, it can be painful for both you and your loved ones. You are not only faced with your health concerns, but the mounding medical bills, family responsibilities and other financial obligations with lack of income or resources can take a toll on you and could cause additional health issues.

 

Scheduling an appointment to sit down in our office and discuss your case with an experienced lawyer costs you nothing. If you decide to hire our firm to represent you, there are no attorney fees unless we win your case. Allow us to fight for your right for the benefits you deserve while you concentrate on regaining your health. You don’t have to face the social security system alone. We have the expertise through years of experience to fight for your social security benefits. Call (731) 424-3315 for an appointment today!

Frequently Asked Social Security Disability Questions

What’s the difference between the social security disability and SSI disability programs?

Both programs require that you be disabled, but benefits are calculated differently for the two programs.  There are also differences in the way the two programs are operated.  SSI is a federal welfare program.  As such, there is a limit on the amount of “assets” you may have in order to receive any payment at all.  Also, the monthly amount of SSI benefits SSA will pay you depends on your income from all sources, including the amount of your social security disability benefits.  In your case, if it appears that your social security disability benefits will be great enough to disqualify you from receiving on-going SSI benefits, you will get some SSI back benefits.

 

Social security disability, on the other hand, is similar to an insurance program. You are eligible for social security disability benefits because you are disabled and because you paid social security taxes.

 

All SSI benefits are processed at your local Social Security Office.  Social security disability benefits for most people are processed in Baltimore, Maryland.  Benefits of those people who are over age 55 are processed in regional payment centers.

What you can expect from us.

  • You will meet with attorney Jerome Teel for your free initial consultation
  • We will complete all paperwork and submit to the Disability Determination Section
  • We will file all appeals in a timely manner using key words to get your case noticed
  • We will obtain your medical evidence and thoroughly evaluate your case
  • You will be personally prepared for your hearing by attorney Jerome Teel

Steps to Getting Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income Benefits

I. Initial Application

Applicants file initial application and supporting documents with the Social Security Administration. If you have not yet completed an application for benefits, give us a call and request a New Application Workbook.

II. Reconsideration Level

If you are denied benefits on your initial application, you must request a reconsideration of your case within 60 days of the date on your denial letter. Failing to timely appeal is the most common mistake made by applicants.

III. Hearing Level

If your claim is denied after requesting a request for reconsideration, you have 60 days from the date of your reconsideration denial letter to request a Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge.

IV. Appeal Council

This step consists of filing a written appeal which will be considered by a special department of the Social Security Administration. The Appeals Council reviews their case to determine whether you were given a fair hearing. If you succeed, your case could be remanded back to the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review for a new hearing to be set. The appeals council also has the power to reverse the Administrative Law Judge decision and award benefits without an additional hearing.

V. Federal Court

If the Appeals Council denied your appeal and/or refused to review your case, you have 60 days to file for review of your case in the Federal District Court. After reviewing the record from your hearing, the Federal judge can (1) award disability benefits, (2) deny benefits, or (3) send your case back to the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review for an additional hearing.