Social Security Disability
Disability Services
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are programs administered by the United States Government offering financial relief for those who are unable to return to work for a year or longer due to their medical disabilities.
Individuals who are currently out of work, or have recently been out of work for a year or more, can qualify for both financial assistance as well as automatic enrollment in Medicare and/or Medicaid. SSDI is primarily for individuals with a recent work history and their monthly payments are paid out of the Social Security Trust Fund, funded by social security taxes. SSI is for individuals in desperate financial need who, for whatever reason, are not fully covered by SSDI. The medical determination of "disabled" is identical across the two programs and oftentimes SSDI and SSI cases are heard at the same time.
Our attorneys are equipped to assist clients with navigating the complex process of applying for disability. Our team assists with initial applications and subsequent appeals, represents clients in hearings before Administrative Law Judges and, when necessary, appeals to Federal Court.
Due to severe funding shortages and an influx of applicants, the process for applying for Social Security Disability benefits is a lengthy one. After submitting an initial application, individuals can expect to wait up to nine months before receiving a decision.
Unfortunately, most disability applications are denied. Even strong cases are forced to go through a lengthy appeal process before receiving a favorable decision. This process can often take years and will often culminate with a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge.
Our attorneys have extensive experience in both navigating the application process and in zealously advocating for clients in front of judges. In addition, Law Firm Carolinas assumes responsibility for preparing a client’s file including obtaining medical records and soliciting medical opinions from relevant medical providers.
In short, the process for winning disability benefits can be long and frustrating. However, the assistance of a skilled and experienced attorney can significantly decrease the stress and uncertainty individuals have to shoulder.
