Disability attorneys help their clients apply for benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Sometimes they help people whose claims have been denied. Of course, they will need to review certain information about your situation in order to give you the best options possible. Everything they review – whether your medical records or work history – is done to help you get the benefits you deserve. Here are five things disability attorneys review and why.
#1. They Look at Work Credits and Work History
The Social Security Administration (Social Security) has an application process that requires people to provide certain information. People seeking benefits must also meet certain requirements.
SSDI applications must have accumulated a certain number of work credits before qualifying for benefits. A sliding scale shows how many you will have, based on age and recent work history.
For example, someone age 22 might only need 6 credits. Another applicant aged 31 or older generally needs at least 20 credits. No one needs to have accumulated more than 40 credits.
#2. Disability Attorneys Look at Your Current Earnings
Some people are still trying to work or are able to work a little each month. Disability attorneys look at how much you are currently making because monthly earnings can prevent you from qualifying for benefits.
In 2021, the monthly limit is $1,310. If you are earning more than this, it is unlikely that you will meet Social Security’s guidelines.
#3. Medical Records Will Be Important
Disability attorneys know that you have to prove several things to Social Security before receiving SSDI. You must be able to prove that you have a disabling medical condition. Your attorney might review your records to help you with your application. Social Security certainly will expect to see medical records that show how long you have had your condition and how long it is expected to last.
Social Security has a website – Listing of Impairments – that lists medical conditions that could be disabilities. The Listing also includes information about what proof Social Security will need to see, based on the specific condition.
#4. Application for Other Benefits Will Be of Interest to Disability Attorneys
Some people qualify for more than one type of benefit. However, receiving other benefits could potentially disqualify some people for benefits.
This problem may not affect an SSDI application for benefits. However, SSI is a needs-based program, so receiving other benefits could disqualify you.
#5. You’ll Review Other SSDI Requirements
Social Security also has a number of other requirements that must be met, in addition to medical condition and work history. For example, Social Security staff typically ask about:
- Your birth and citizenship;
- Marriage, divorce, and children;
- Military service;
- Employers and employment history, including self-employment;
- Banking information needed to set up Direct Deposit;
- Your alternate contact;
- Your training and education background; and
- Medical conditions, medical providers, and medical records.
Getting through the application and subsequent interview with Social Security can be stressful. Experienced disability attorneys can help.
As Disability Attorneys, We Know What to Look for When Working on Your Case
Many first-time claims are denied. When going through the application process, it helps to have someone in your corner. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have the experience and ability to take on your case. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. We assist clients throughout Southern California from our home office in Anaheim.
