- Who Qualifies for Social Security Disability in West Virginia?
- Guidance and Support for Your SSD Claim in West Virginia
- Standing by You Through Applications, Hearings, and Appeals in West Virginia
- No Matter How Long Your Claim Takes, We’re Prepared to Represent You
- Get Support From Our West Virginia Disability Lawyers Now
When a serious medical condition keeps you from working, everything in your life can feel uncertain. The bills don’t stop, your health needs more attention, and getting answers from the Social Security Administration (SSA) can feel impossible. Many people in West Virginia face the same struggle and quickly discover that applying for disability benefits is far more complicated than expected.
Social Security Disability programs are meant to provide financial stability, but the paperwork, deadlines, and decisions can be discouraging—especially if you’ve already been denied. The West Virginia Social Security Disability lawyers at Berger and Green can help you take the next step, whether you’re filing an application or preparing an appeal. With decades of experience and a commitment to making the process easier, our team is here to support you so you don’t have to face it alone.
Call us now for a free consultation.
Who Qualifies for Social Security Disability in West Virginia?
Qualifying for disability benefits depends on how your condition affects your ability to work. The Social Security Administration reviews medical evidence, your work history, and how your symptoms limit your daily activities. Disabilities can include long-term, severe, or even fatal conditions.
Many people meet the requirements but still face denials because the process is detailed and technical. There are two different programs you may qualify for:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is based on your work history. Most applicants need about 20 work credits, which equals roughly five years of recent work. Older workers may need more credits, and younger workers may qualify with fewer.
The SSA will also look at whether your medical condition is expected to keep you from working for at least 12 months or result in death. SSDI can be an option for people who have worked consistently but can no longer support themselves due to serious health conditions.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, it does not require a work history or work credits. The SSA reviews your financial situation and your medical limitations to see if you qualify for this program. Applicants may turn to SSI if they do not have the work credits for SSDI or when their health makes it difficult to maintain steady employment.
40+ years of experience from strong, knowledgeable, compassionate attorneys.
Start A Free EvaluationGuidance and Support for Your SSD Claim in West Virginia
Applying for disability benefits or responding to a denial can feel like a lot to deal with when you’re already coping with a serious health condition. Berger and Green’s West Virginia Social Security Disability lawyers work to make the process easier and less stressful. Here are some of the ways we support our clients:
- Completing and filing SSD applications when you’re starting the process
- Handling appeals if your claim was denied
- Explaining each step so you always know what’s happening with your case
- Keeping communication clear and consistent throughout the process
- Offering a free case evaluation to help you understand your options
- Represent you at your hearing before an Administrative Law Judge
Our goal is to take on the administrative burden so you can focus on your health.
We know you’re hurting. We can help. Free case evaluations, home and hospital visits.
Contact Us Now For HelpStanding by You Through Applications, Hearings, and Appeals in West Virginia
The Social Security Disability process can feel long and confusing, especially when you are already dealing with serious health concerns. Knowing what to expect can make the next steps feel more manageable. While every case is different, most claims move through several stages before a final decision is made.
Application
Your case begins when you apply for benefits. The Social Security Administration reviews your medical information, work history, and basic eligibility. Many people receive a denial at this first stage, even when their health clearly affects their ability to work. At Berger and Green, we can file your application for benefits.
Reconsideration
If your application is denied, you can request a reconsideration. A different reviewer evaluates your claim. For many claimants, this stage also ends in a denial, but it is an important step before moving forward. When you contact the lawyers at Berger and Green during this stage, we can file your Request for Reconsideration.
Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing
If reconsideration is denied, the next step is a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. These hearings may take place by phone, video, or in person. During this stage, the Judge reviews your submitted evidence and may ask clarifying questions about your condition. This step may even include testimonies from medical experts or witnesses. It is critically important that you have an attorney during this stage of the process.
Appeals Council Review
If the ALJ does not approve your claim, you can request an Appeals Council review. The Appeals Council may review the decision, return the case to the judge, or allow the existing decision to stand.
Federal Court
If the Appeals Council denies your request or upholds the ALJ’s decision, you may choose to take your case to federal court.
Throughout each stage, Berger and Green’s West Virginia Social Security Disability lawyers are here to guide you, answer your questions, and help you understand what comes next.
You need an attorney with the experience and dedication to give your case the care it deserves.
Start A Free EvaluationNo Matter How Long Your Claim Takes, We’re Prepared to Represent You
Social Security Disability claims often take longer than people expect. The Social Security Administration reviews every case carefully, and high caseloads can lead to long wait times at each stage. Even strong claims may move slowly as the SSA gathers information and evaluates how your condition affects your ability to work.
Delays are only part of the challenge. Many applicants receive a denial at least once during the process. Denials may occur because the SSA needs more information, cannot confirm work history, or determines that certain technical requirements were not met. These decisions can feel discouraging, but they are extremely common and do not mean your condition isn’t serious.
Working with Berger and Green can help you move through the process with fewer surprises. Our team makes sure your application or appeal is completed and filed properly with the information the SSA needs to review your claim, helping you avoid common issues that lead to unnecessary delays or denials.
We can address all the legal hurdles that may be keeping you from getting a fair settlement.
Speak To An Attorney TodayGet Support From Our West Virginia Disability Lawyers Now
If you’re struggling to navigate the Social Security Disability system, you don’t have to handle it on your own. Berger and Green’s West Virginia Social Security Disability lawyers are here to help you apply for benefits or appeal a denial. With more than 40 years of experience and a commitment to putting clients first, we work to make the process easier so you can focus on your health. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
