The Process For Seeking Social Security Disability Benefits
Applying for disability benefits from the federal government can be a complicated process when you attempt it on your own. Completing an application means collecting evidence that proves your disability, filling out the correct forms and preparing for the likelihood that your initial claim will be rejected regardless of merit.
The attorneys at the Kennedy Law Firm, PLLC help applicants understand the application process and develop strategies for getting claims approved the first time. Our Christian lawyers have faith that the Lord will provide for those who are truly in need.
Medical requirements for SSI and SSDI benefits
Both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) require applicants to prove physical or mental disability that prevents them from working. In order to qualify, you must not be able to perform substantial work, and your earnings must be below a certain amount each month. Your medical records must show evidence of the impairment and how that impairment prevents you from working. Certain medical conditions found in a manual called the “blue book” automatically qualify you for benefits. These include:
- Respiratory illnesses
- Mental disorders
- Heart problems
- Kidney disease
- Serious back injuries
Many other ailments are severe enough to automatically count as a disability. Our attorneys work to prove to the Social Security Administration that your condition limits your ability to earn an income even if it isn’t found in the “blue book.”
Financial requirements for federal benefits
The financial requirements for SSI and SSDI are very different. In order to qualify for SSI, your income must be below a certain level. To qualify for SSDI, you must have the required number of work credits for someone your age.
Our attorneys help you gather the necessary medical and financial records to apply for SSI or SSDI. We also work with you to complete the paperwork.
Moving forward after a denied application
Our Clarksville attorneys work with you to get your application right. Unfortunately, many claims for SSI and SSDI are denied the first time. When appeals are necessary, our compassionate and dedicated attorneys walk you through the entire process. After a denied application, you have the right to file a Request for Reconsideration and to bring an appeal before an administrative law judge. We also help you correct your application if it was denied for a technical reason, such as leaving areas of a form blank or misstating your earnings.
Clarksville attorneys assist with veterans disability benefits applications
Veterans disability benefits applications are processed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This process is entirely different from applying for SSI and SSDI because you only need to prove that you are 10% or more disabled to begin receiving benefits. Veterans disability is only awarded when your disability or illness is related to your active-duty service. Our attorneys help you collect the medical evidence needed to prove this connection and work to assist you in the completion of necessary forms. When necessary, we help you appeal an unfavorable decision by the VA.
When you need help getting the benefits you deserve, trust a Christian law firm in Tennessee
If you are disabled, it is important that you start receiving benefits as soon as possible. The dedicated attorneys at the Kennedy Law Firm, PLLC help SSI and SSDI applicants in the Clarksville area complete their benefits applications thoroughly and correctly. To learn more about the benefits application process at a free initial consultation, call our Clarksville office at 931-444-5620 or contact us online.
