Social Security Disability is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It provides benefits to individuals who have paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to a disability.
If you are interested in seeking federal disability, an experienced SSD attorney can help you understand Kansas City SSD benefits terms and ensure you present a strong case to the SSA.
Social Security offers disability benefits to individuals in Kansas City who have a severe medical impairment that prevents them from working. To receive SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) benefits from the SSA, you must have a medical condition that is fatal or prevents you from working for a year or more.
You should generally have worked for at least 5 of the last 10 years. Once you reach your full retirement age (which varies depending on your birth year), your SSDI benefits will automatically switch to Social Security retirement benefits.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) provides monthly cash benefits to adults and children who are blind and have disabilities and qualified low-income individuals who are 65 or older. For some applicants, it is possible to receive both SSDI and SSI benefits simultaneously.
When navigating the Social Security disability benefits process in Kansas City, several key terms should be understood.
The Listing of Impairments is a comprehensive manual that the SSA uses to evaluate disability claims. It lists various physical and mental impairments and the medical criteria needed to determine if an individual’s condition is severe enough to prevent them from working. A Kansas City attorney can explain all relevant SSD benefits terms that apply to your case and ensure you understand the details of each step in the application process.
The SSA uses Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to determine eligibility for SSDI or certain SSI benefits. SGA decides whether someone can engage in productive work and, therefore, whether they are potentially eligible for disability benefits.
Medical evidence is the cornerstone of any SSD application, providing the SSA with the information needed to determine eligibility. Important examples of medical evidence include medical records, physical statements, test results, and psychological assessments.
A consultative examination (CE) is a medical exam ordered by the SSA to gather additional information about a claimant’s physical or mental condition when they need more evidence to determine eligibility for benefits. The CE is typically conducted by a doctor not currently involved in the claimant’s treatment, and the SSA pays for the exam.
You earn work credits by working in jobs covered by Social Security. Work credits earned through working and paying Social Security taxes determine eligibility for Social Security benefits, including SSDI. You can earn up to four credits annually, and the earnings required to earn credit change yearly.
Our lawyers can ensure that your claim fulfills Kansas City SSD benefits terms and is complete and accurate from the start. If your initial application is denied, you will need to appeal, and we can help you navigate this process.
Do not hesitate to contact our experienced disability attorneys today to request your free consultation. The legal team at BurnettDriskill Attorneys is here to help.
(816) 781-4836