Grand Rapids Social Security Disability Lawyer
Each year, thousands of people in Michigan are forced to leave their jobs due to a medical condition. They struggle with pain and emotional distress, but the greatest threat is to their financial stability. Unfortunately, many people flirt with bankruptcy because they can’t pay their bills once they are sidelined with a severe injury or illness.
At Nationwide Disability Law, we help disabled people obtain necessary benefits. The Social Security Disability (SSD) program was created to help workers when a medical condition prevents them from going into work. Obtaining these benefits is a challenge, however, and too many are rejected. Call our firm to speak with our Grand Rapids Social Security Disability lawyer in a free consultation.
A Closer Look at Social Security Disability
Federal disability benefits are administered by the Social Security Administration, the same agency that handles retirement benefits. In fact, workers pay into the SSD program at the same time they contribute to their retirement. If you have a qualifying disability, you can receive benefits for being unable to work.
Eligibility is strict. Generally, you must have a severe disability which prevents you from working your current or even an old job. Your medical condition must also prevent you from transitioning to a new job. Further, SSD only provides benefits for long-term injury—that is, a disability that will last at least one year or result in your death.
Reasons Why Applicants are Denied
Too many disabled individuals are initially denied benefits after completing and submitting their application. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Your disability is not severe enough.
- Your disability did not last at least one year.
- You have insufficient work credits.
- You did not provide adequate information in your application.
- You are working and making too much money.
Nationwide Disability Law can help anyone in the application process. Our firm can review your medical records and work history to see if you are eligible. We can also help you complete and submit an application. Many people make simple errors which result in automatic denial. Let us ensure your application is complete and without mistakes.
Every person’s disability journey is different. A few people are immediately approved for benefits. But the majority are initially denied for various reasons. Our firm can analyze the reasons cited and whether you should request an appeal. We can help you submit a request for reconsideration and/or a hearing before an administrative law judge. We will also work closely with your medical providers to fully support your claim that you are disabled.
Michigan Social Security Disability FAQs
The application process for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits is a maze for many people. To help clear up the confusion, our Grand Rapids Social Security Disability attorney provides answers to many of the most common questions in this article. Reach out to our firm to schedule your own, individual consultation with our firm.
What are my odds of approval?
It depends on your medical condition and other factors. Roughly 70% of applicants are initially denied. That’s very high. However, you might request reconsideration. About 16% are approved at that stage. Next, you can request an appeal before an administrative law judge, who holds a hearing. About 35% of applicants are approved at this level.
If an ALJ denied you benefits, you might appeal to the Appeals Council or even to a federal judge. Far fewer applicants get approved at these stages, though.
What are work credits and do I have enough?
The Social Security Disability program is funded by taxes on workers. To receive benefits, you need sufficient work credits. For most workers, that will be 40 credits, with 20 coming in the past 10 years. You can earn 4 credits, at most, each year.
There are exceptions. Young workers can qualify even with fewer than 40 credits. Even adults might qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), depending on their situation.
What are my options if my application is denied?
Most people who receive benefits are initially denied. The good news is you can request reconsideration within 60 days in most cases. You should contact a lawyer quickly. If you are denied again on reconsideration, you can request an appeal before an administrative law judge (ALJ).
Who is the right lawyer for my case?
Applicants for disability benefits should hire a firm that focuses on disability law. There are countless ALJ and court decisions which interpret the law, and our firm stays on top of these decisions. Also, someone who practices in this area knows what evidence a judge finds persuasive. We have handled hundreds of cases on appeal. We have built a reputation for providing excellent lawyering on behalf of clients.
Can I afford your legal services?
Federal law regulates how much a lawyer handling a Social Security Disability (SSD) case can make. Typically, the amount is 25% of your back-due benefits or $6,000, whichever is less. If you do not receive benefits, you owe our law firm nothing. Because there is no risk, contact us today!
Can SSA cut off my benefits once I receive them?
Yes. There are many reasons why they might do this. You might no longer be disabled. Also, you might return to work and start making too much. A lawyer can help you decide whether to fight this attempt to terminate your disability benefits.
Our Consultations Are Free: Contact Us Today
Anyone struggling with a disability should receive all the benefits they qualify for under the law. You have worked hard and paid into the system for years. Now is the time to obtain expert legal advice. At Nationwide Disability Law, our Grand Rapids Social Security Disability attorney can help you ready an application for submission or take up your case on appeal. Call us today to schedule your appointment.
