Trinity SSDI Lawyer
People do their best to stay healthy, exercise and drive safely. Unfortunately, when disaster strikes, even the healthiest among us can find themselves disabled. Thankfully, Social Security is something we all pay into and have as a safety net. When a person can no longer work because of an injury or illness, they may be entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, benefits. Unfortunately, a high percentage of SSDI claims are denied in the initial phase of the application. In order to qualify for benefits, the applicant must be disabled as defined by the Social Security Administration.
Their unique definition includes only those who are unable to perform work duties they could before they became disabled. The SSA must also determine that the person cannot adjust to other kinds of work because of their condition. Majority of applications are denied. Though there is an appeals process, it is a lengthy one. If you or someone you love are considering filing a claim, a Trinity SSDI lawyer can help. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you prepare your application and assist you through the appeals process if your claim is denied.
Determining SSDI Eligibility
Designed to provide benefits to those who have paid into Social Security, SSDI can be a lifesaver for people suffering impairments because of illness or injury. To qualify, a person must be completely disabled and unable to complete any kind of work, regardless of what the person’s occupation was before they were injured.
The disability must stem from a serious condition that is expected to last for at least one year or until the person passes away. Both physical and mental disabilities can be considered, but their condition must be diagnosed by a doctor and provide evidence to support their claim.
How to Qualify for Disability Claims
Qualifying medical conditions include:
- Crohn’s disease
- HIV AIDS
- Hepatitis C
- Schizophrenia
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Multiple sclerosis
- Lupus
- Degenerative disc disease
- Bipolar disorder
- Congestive heart failure
- Cancer
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Congestive heart failure
- Osteoarthritis
- Reflex sympathetic dystrophy
- Anxiety disability
Types of Disability Benefits
The Social Security Administration offers two programs for disabled people looking for benefits: The Social Security Disability Insurance program and the Supplemental Security Income program. SSDI benefits are paid out of the Social Security funds, while SSI benefits are not. Instead, SSI is needs-based and paid out of the general tax fund. No work history is required.
Disabled people who do not qualify for SSDI benefits may have an insufficient work history. In that case, they may be eligible for SSI benefits. SSI was intended to help disabled kids and adults with limited means.
The Social Security Act ensures the following types of benefits are available to the disabled:
- Social Security Disability Insurance
- Supplemental Security Income
- Supplemental Security Income for a disabled child
- Social Security Disability Insurance for surviving spouses
How an Attorney Can Help
Whether you have not yet filed a SSDI claim or need representation when appearing before a Social Security Administrative Law Judge, a Trinity SSDI lawyer can help. An initial consultation with an attorney can help clarify your rights and give you insight into what might lie ahead. Working as an advocate for you, your attorney can offer the advantage of knowing the best way to present your disability case in order to meet the specific criteria for which judges often look.