Social Security Disability
North Carolina Social Security Disability attorneys
Receiving Social Security Disability Insurance is a long, drawn-out process, and most people are denied when first applying for benefits. You have 60 days to appeal, and there are up to four levels of appeals. Because it could take years to qualify for benefits, it is wise to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance as soon as you discover your disability will keep you from working. Detailed paperwork, medical records, and proper documentation are required for approval. An experienced lawyer, who knows what is needed and is effective in presenting the details of your case, can save you time and frustration.
What is Social Security Disability?
The Social Security Administration defines disability as the “inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”
Government benefits programs
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are the two most well-known Social Security disability benefits programs. SSDI is only available to people who have worked and paid social security taxes, whereas SSI is not based on the individual's tax payments; it is based on need. People with little to no income source may qualify. The blind, severely handicapped, and senior citizens over 65 are generally the three groups capable of receiving SSI benefits.
Widows or widowers over 50 years of age who become disabled within a certain time after their spouse dies may qualify for Disabled Widow's and Widower's Benefits (provided that their deceased spouse was insured under Social Security.)
Children of parents who become disabled or die may be eligible for benefits until they reach 22 years of age.
If you are disabled and not working, how can you pay for a lawyer?
SSDI and SSI cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, requiring no out-of-pocket expense or hourly charges. Lawyer’s fees are federally regulated by the Social Security Administration. When benefits are determined, the legal expenses come out of the benefits payment.
