SSD FAQ

Social Security Attorney

What is Social Security Disability Insurance?

Social Security Disability Insurance is a chief benefit of the Social Security Act; disability insurance is a program in which employees contribute money from each paycheck to a fund designed to help those who are unable to work due to disability. The Social Security Administration reviews each disability claim so those who truly need financial support receive it.

How do I qualify for Social Security Disability benefits?

The government reviews two criteria when determining who qualifies for disability: the amount of time you have worked and the nature of your disability. The Social Security Administration uses a system of earned work credits per year, but in general you need to have worked fairly regularly and recently before you became disabled. As for the nature of your disability, any medical condition that prevents you from working at your former job or adjusting to a new one could make you eligible for significant benefits.

What's the difference between Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Supplemental Security Income is a program for those with extremely low income who have become disabled. The eligibility rules for the disability are similar; what differs for SSI is that payment is based on your income and resources rather than your work history and previous earnings. Also, where Disability Insurance is funded by deductions from paychecks, SSI is federally funded.

When can I file for Social Security Disability Insurance?

Once you acquire a condition that is likely to keep you out of work for the coming year, you should file immediately for benefits. It can take a couple of months for your claim to be processed, so the sooner, the better.

What are my chances of being approved for benefits?

There is no way of knowing for certain whether your condition will be judged as eligible for benefits by the Social Security Administration. Two people with the same disease won't necessarily both be approved. The key element is the severity of your condition—that it is severe enough to keep you out of work for significant stretches of time.

What if I am denied benefits?

It is fairly common for initial Social Security Disability benefits claims to be denied. Often, however, your claim will be approved at a higher level. Obtain the professional services of a Social Security Disability lawyer, one experienced in employment. The offices of Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin want to help you get the money you deserve.

Free Consultation

If you have been denied Social Security Disability benefits and want a professional law firm that puts clients first, contact the SSD attorneys at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin. Complete a free online consultation form or call us toll free at (800) 618-4878 to contact us today.