Jefferson County Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you or a loved one in Jefferson County has a disability that prevents you from working you may be entitled to monthly benefits.  The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two types of benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). A Jefferson County Social Security Disability lawyer from Berger and Green can help you apply for disability benefits. 

Alternatively, if you or a loved one was denied SSDI or SSI benefits. Our attorneys can file an appeal and represent you during the process. Wherever you are in the process of pursuing disability benefits, our team at Berger and Green can guide you. We offer a free consultation to discuss what options are available to you.

How a Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help You with Your Claim

The primary goal for your Social Security disability application is to make sure all information you provide is accurate and complete. At Berger and Green we can help you apply for disability benefits. If you decide to hire a Jefferson County Social Security Disability lawyer from Berger and Green, our team will be able to:

• Help you complete an SSD benefits application and relevant SSA forms
• Ensure you did not miss a deadline
• File any necessary appeals
• Review your medical documentation and evidence
• Attend legal appearances to support your case, such as hearings with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

Our legal team will also provide updates on your case as new developments occur. We can also explain any terms you may be unfamiliar with and help you better understand what to expect when pursuing SSD benefits. You can also learn more about how a Social Security Disability attorney can help your case on our blog.

Social Security Disability Insurance vs. Supplemental Security Income

When applying for Social Security Disability benefits, it is important to understand which programs you qualify for and what materials are necessary to claim benefits from them, as there are different eligibility requirements for each. However, the medical requirements for each SSD benefits program are the same in that the applicant must have a qualifying disability.

The SSA has two main programs for disability benefits, which are:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program that awards disability benefits based on how long an individual has worked and paid Social Security taxes. 

Workers’ contributions are based on their earnings and serve as insurance for workers to be covered by SSDI should they become disabled. These contributions are then considered “work credits,” and how many credits you earn will determine whether you qualify for SSDI and the benefits you receive.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program; applicants must have a qualifying disability and prove that they have limited finances. SSI benefits are provided through general tax revenues, so you do not have to “earn” work credits through Social Security tax contributions. 

This program is meant to help those in financial need afford basic living necessities, such as money for food, clothing, and shelter. Applicants can also apply for state supplements to receive additional benefits if they qualify.

Can You Receive Both SSDI and SSI Benefits?

People who qualify for both the SSDI and SSI programs can receive concurrent benefits. However, you will need to report any updates to the SSA if your medical conditions improve or you are able to return to work, as this can affect whether you continue receiving SSDI and/or SSI benefits. 

For example, if your medical condition improves and you are able to perform “substantial gainful activity (SGA),” then this may affect whether you qualify for SSD benefits if you earn more than the monthly SGA amount listed by the SSA for your current work year.

Can You Receive SSD Benefits and Workers’ Compensation?

Workers can receive SSDI benefits and workers’ compensation. However, the amount of disability benefits and compensation you receive must not exceed 80 percent of your average current earnings, according to the SSA’s guide, How Workers’ Compensation and Other Disability Payments May Affect Your Benefits. 

Received a Denial? Our Ohio SSD Attorneys Can Help You Appeal Your Case

If your SSD benefits application was denied, that does not mean your case is over. The majority of applicants are denied disability benefits on their initial application, so it is common for applicants to file an appeal. Our legal team understands the appeals process and can guide you through the appeals system with the SSA. You must file your appeal within 60 days of your denial.

The appeals process generally has four stages, though you are not required to go through each stage to be approved for disability benefits. These stages are:

• Reconsideration: Your first appeal involves requesting the SSA reconsider your application based on new information or evidence you provide. A new SSA administrator will review your application.
• Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing: The next appeal stage involves having your case reviewed by an ALJ, who will determine whether the SSA administrator’s decision on your application was correct.
• Appeals Council hearing: The next appeal stage involves having the Appeals Council review your case and determine whether they agree with the Judge’s decision.
• Federal district court hearing: The next and final appeal stage involves having your case reviewed by a federal district court. 

Our team will prepare your case so that it is comprehensive and contains accurate information. Your Jefferson County Social Security Disability lawyer can serve as your representative during each stage of the appeals process. 

Call an SSD Attorney to Speak with a Team Member in a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one in Jefferson County is trying to apply for Social Security Disability benefits or appeal a denial decision on your application, call Berger and Green for a free consultation. You can discuss your case with a member of our team who will explain what our firm can do to help you pursue SSD benefits. We are happy to answer any questions that you may have. 

Our legal team has over 40 years of experience in helping clients apply for SSD benefits and appeal case denials. Call now to learn more about how a Jefferson County Social Security Disability lawyer from our firm can represent you.