Social Security Disability Law

A portion of the tax that you pay to the federal government is intended to insure you in the event that you become disabled. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines “disabled” as unable to engage in gainful employment on a regular and sustained basis. If you have enough work “credits” and are disabled, you may be eligible to receive disability benefits.

If you apply for Social Security disability benefits, do not be surprised if you are turned down. Most applicants are turned down, both on the first application, and then on the first “appeal, ” or request for reconsideration. After a denial on reconsideration, you have the right to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Many claimants succeed in obtaining benefits after a hearing.

If I represent you in your claim for disability benefits, I will review your medical history, determine the connection between your medical condition and the SSA's regulations, obtain needed documents from your medical providers. I may request, if appropriate, that your medical provider complete a functional capacity form or other written report about your medical condition. Finally, I will explain to you the hearing procedure, and will represent you in the hearing.

Supplemental Security Benefits

The federal government provides disability benefits to disabled persons who do not have a sufficient work history to be insured, but who have few assets. The rules for determining whether a person is disabled are the same as those for claimants who are insured by virtue of their work history.