The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict guidelines for determining eligibility for Social Security benefits, and claims are often denied. We understand that navigating the application process alone can be challenging, especially when you have a serious medical condition.
Hiring an SSDI lawyer in Kansas City has numerous benefits. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your likelihood of eligibility, submit the necessary documentation with your application, and communicate with the SSA on your behalf.
SSDI benefits are available to people with a qualifying disability and have obtained enough work credits in a job that pays into Social Security. To be eligible, a person generally must have at least 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last decade.
Work credits are based on income earned. If you were out of the workforce for five years or more before your disability, you may not qualify.
The SSA defines disability strictly, requiring the inability to work for at least a year or because the condition is likely to lead to death. The SSA maintains a list of qualifying medical conditions. Even if your condition is not listed, you might still be eligible if the condition is severe and prevents you from working. An attorney can help determine your likelihood of eligibility, so you can confidently submit your application.
Applying for SSDI involves completing detailed forms, gathering records, and doing so within the deadlines set by the SSA. When applications are incomplete or include mistakes, the SSA may deny them or at least delay them. Another benefit of hiring an SSDI lawyer in Kansas City is that they can prevent mistakes and incomplete forms.
The SSA denies many SSDI claims. We understand this decision is not the outcome you hope for, so you can appeal if it happens to you. The SSA has a multi-step process for appealing a decision.
First, you can submit a request for reconsideration within 60 days of receiving a decision. Next, you can request a hearing with an administrative law judge. Reviewing the hearing decision with the Appeals Council is the third step, and the last resort is filing a federal district court action with the U.S. District Court if the Appeals Council’s response is not satisfactory.
Each of these steps has strict deadlines. A lawyer can help you file your appeal on time and present your case as best as possible. If a hearing is necessary, an experienced attorney can prepare you for the questions you may be asked, explain what to expect, and represent you in court. The process could be much less stressful with a lawyer from the BurnettDriskill team.
Applying for SSDI benefits can be a complicated, lengthy process. One of the many benefits of hiring an SSDI lawyer in Kansas City is that you will have someone on your side that is familiar with SSDI rules and procedures. If you are applying for SSDI or need help with an appeal, contact our office today for a free consultation.
(816) 781-4836