Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits assist those individuals who are disabled and in need of financial assistance. SSD differs from Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in that it is only available to those with sufficient work credits. SSD recipients must have worked and paid taxes for a certain period of time in order to become eligible to receive benefits.
At Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, we understand that applying for SSD benefits can be complicated and applicants can be denied if errors are made in the application process. Denied applicants will need to appeal the decision in order to receive benefits. Our firm assists clients in applying for or appealing from the denial of SSD benefits so that they can receive their deserved benefits.
The Five Step Process of Applying for SSD Benefits
There are five main things you must answer and meet to qualify for SSD benefits. Your SSD attorney will provide you with more detailed information and assist you in completing all necessary steps.
1. What is your work history?
To be eligible for SSD benefits, you need to have worked for a certain number of years at a qualifying job. If you have not completed the work history needed, your claim will be denied.
2. Are you engaged in substantial gainful activity?
If you are working and make over a certain amount of money, you will likely be considered “engaged in a substantial gainful activity.” Those who earn too much, even if they are disabled, will not qualify for SSD benefits.
3. Will your condition last over 12 months?
To qualify as disabled per the Social Security Administration’s definition, you must suffer from a mental or physical impairment that will continue for at least 12 months or result in death.
4. Is your condition a serious one?
The Social Security Administration sends SSD applications to the Disability Determination Service to assess your level of impairment. If your impairment is not expected to impact your ability to work, then you will not be eligible for benefits. The Disability Determination Service will consult its list of impairments generally meeting SSD requirements and will make an assessment. The Listings of Impairments is extensive and includes numerous physical and mental disorders, many of which are chronic or life threatening.
5. Can you perform any other job?
If your impairment prevents you from performing your previous job, the Social Security Administration will assess whether you are able to perform another sort of job in which your disability will not serve as an impediment.
The SSD application process is tedious and your SSD lawyer will prove vital in expediting and simplifying your application. Contact an attorney as soon as possible in order to protect your legal rights.
Call Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law to Discuss Your Application for SSD Benefits
Successfully applying for SSD benefits can be a complex and time consuming process. The Georgia Social Security Attorneys at Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law zealously assist you in applying for these important benefits. Our dedicated law firm provides professional assistance to those needing help with any social security matter across Georgia. We have over 39 years of experience and will fight to see that you obtain the benefits to which you are entitled. Call Montlick & Associates, Attorneys at Law, 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.
