Social Security Disability Lawyer

What Is Social Security?

Social Security is a government program established by the Social Security Act that provides income to retirees, spouses, dependent children and survivors, as well as disabled persons. The Social Security Act is a complex set of laws with strict eligibility requirements. Social Security laws also contain detailed procedures for administrative hearings and judicial review.

The assistance of a skilled Social Security Disability lawyer at Ankin Law, LLC is crucial to the swift and favorable processing of your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim.

If you are a person with a disabling condition, you may be eligible for disability benefits under the Social Security program. You may also be entitled to benefits provided by your employer through long-term disability insurance. The benefits of long-term disability insurance are usually based on a percentage of your salary, with the insurance company deciding whether you will receive benefits. If you are a veteran, you may also be eligible for disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Disability Eligibility Requirements

Generally, if under the age of 65, a person must have a disabling condition to receive Social Security Disability benefits. A disabling condition is defined as a physical or mental medical condition that prevents a person from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. A Social Security disability medical exam can help you achieve a diagnosis for your disabling condition.

Pursuing a claim for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits due to a mental illness or disorder can present unique challenges. If you have a mental illness or disorder, we recommend that you contact a Social Security disability lawyer for a mental disability with Ankin Law to help with your claim.

Differences between Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI) provide payments to people with disabilities who have earned enough “work credits” through the payment of Social Security taxes deducted from their paycheck. Unlike Supplemental Security Income benefits, there are no limitations on the assets claimants can possess.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides income to people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. Generally, income includes money that you earn from employment, as well as Social Security benefits, pensions, alimony, interest, and room and board provided to you on a regular basis.

The Disability Claims Process

The Social Security Disability claims process begins by filing an application with the Social Security Administration. The application requires comprehensive information regarding your medical condition, employment history, and financial situation. After a Social Security disability application has been filed, the claim is submitted to the state agency responsible for reviewing the application. The agency will likely schedule an independent medical exam.

What to Do if Your SSDI Claim Is Denied

If your Social Security disability claim is denied, a Request for Reconsideration may be filed with the State Disability Determination Agency and a new adjudicator may be assigned to review the claim. If a Request for Reconsideration of your Social Security Disability claim is denied, a Request for Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge may then be filed.

Get the Support of an Experienced Social Security Disability Attorney

Contact the Chicago Social Security Disability attorneys at Ankin Law to schedule your free consultation. We will help you win your Social Security Disability Insurance or SSI benefits claim.