Social Security Disability

At O’Connor Law, we have been helping injured and disabled people for over 30 years. Our lawyers strive to help men and women get the disability benefits that they deserve. We have fought for thousands of disability applicants and made sure they got the help they needed. When applying for Social Security Disability benefits, it is really important to hire an experienced attorney who focuses in Social Security law, like the lawyers at O’Connor Law. Also, there is no out of pocket costs for hiring us. Our law firm has multiple offices in the state of Pennsylvania and we are here to fight for your rights.

Social Security Disability Information

Most people never think that they will suffer from a disability in any point of their life. People never plan or choose to have a disability of any sort. A severe disability can deter a person’s ability to do daily activities, including working and providing for their loved ones. Fortunately, you can apply for social security disability benefits and receive the support that you need. If you are unable to work due to a medical disability that has lasted at least 12 months, then you may be qualified for Social Security Disability benefits. Depending on the situation, these benefits may be available to your children or spouse. It can be very difficult to receive the benefits you need without the assistance of attorney.

The Social Security system can be very complicated. It is important to apply for Social Security Disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. Before applying for Social Security Disability, you should reach out to an attorney who has experience in Social Security law. At our law firm, we have dedicated disability lawyers who are well-experienced and knowledgeable of the application process. Laws and regulations may have time limits for action; you could lose your rights by waiting.

Our law firm represents the people throughout the state of Pennsylvania who have claims or appeals for Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income. Receiving disability benefits can a very frustrating process, especially without a lawyer on your side. The first step of the process is to file a claim with the local Social Security office. Many claims are denied the first time submitted. If your claim is denied, the next step is a hearing held before an Administrative Law Judge.

We help our clients with the Social Security process by preparing and filing the appropriate appeal paperwork and other required forms, as well as compiling all the medical evidence and presenting our client’s testimony at the hearing. In addition, we defend your Social Security disability claim against the State’s medical and vocational experts. We have also successfully argued before the Appeals Council.

Eligibility

A person is eligible for Social Security Disability benefits if he/she is unable to hold a job because of a diagnosed medical problem, physical or mental, which has persisted or will persist at least one year and/or is expected to result in death.

Non-Medical Requirements for Social Security Benefits

To qualify for SSDI disability benefits, an individual must have paid Social Security payroll taxes over a certain length of time. An individual who has done this will be considered insured (covered) for SSDI purposes. The number of years an individual is required to pay into the Social Security system varies by age. And if an individual stops working and paying Social Security taxes, they must be able to show that their disability began before their insured status ran out.

To qualify for SSI disability benefits, an individual must have income and assets under the SSI program’s strict limits.

Waiting Period

Benefits begin in the sixth full month of disability, following a waiting period, which begins with the first full month of disability. A person should apply as soon as a disability begins so that benefits are received as soon as possible.

Required Information

The Social Security office will ask for this information when you apply for benefits:

• Social Security number
• Proof of age
• Name, address, phone number, and dates of service from all doctors or medical institutions that treated you
• Work History for the past 15 years, including a description of the work you performed
• A copy of your most recent W-2 or, if self-employed, Federal tax return
• Dates of any prior marriages if your spouse is applying

Claim Denied!

If your claim is denied or you disagree with part of Social Security’s decision, you can appeal. You must file an appeal within 60 days of receipt of the decision. If you do not, your right to appeal may be lost. For help with your appeal, call our office.

If you have questions regarding a Social Security disability claim or appeal, please e-mail or call one of our experienced Pennsylvania Social Security lawyer today to schedule your initial consultation.

The team at O’Connor Law is ready to begin tackling your legal problem today. Email or call our toll free number at (800) 518-4LAW for a free initial consultation and review of your case.