If you are unable to work due to a disability, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. However, the process of applying for and obtaining these benefits can be complex and confusing, especially if you have been denied in the past. That’s where our Columbus Social Security Disability attorney can help. Mike Christensen Law Offices can guide you through the process, help you understand your legal rights, and work to ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to. Whether you are applying for benefits for the first time or appealing a denial, a skilled attorney can provide the support and legal expertise you need to achieve a positive outcome.
Our Experienced Columbus Social Security Disability Lawyers Can Help!
Our experienced Columbus social security disability lawyers are committed to helping individuals obtain the disability benefits they deserve. With years of experience handling Social Security Disability cases, our attorneys have a deep understanding of the complex legal system and are equipped to navigate the bureaucratic processes involved in filing and appealing claims. We recognize that dealing with a disability can be overwhelming, and we work tirelessly to take the burden off our clients’ shoulders, allowing them to focus on their health and well-being.
Eligibility Requirements For Social Security Disability Benefits
To be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet several requirements set forth by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The first requirement is that you must have a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of a disability. This means that your condition must prevent you from performing a substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months or be expected to last that long.
Secondly, you must have earned sufficient work credits through paying Social Security taxes during your employment. The number of credits you need depends on your age at the time of disability. For example, if you become disabled before the age of 24, you need to have earned six credits in the three-year period before your disability. If you become disabled between the ages of 24 and 31, you need credits for working half the time between age 21 and the time you became disabled. After age 31, the requirements are more specific and vary according to the situation.
Finally, you must have applied for benefits and been denied, or you must be able to prove that you cannot work due to your disability. This is done through a disability application process, which includes a review of medical evidence and other documentation that supports your disability claim.
Importance Of Hiring A Social Security Disability Attorney
The process of applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be long and complicated, and the chances of being denied are high. This is where hiring a Social Security Disability attorney can be crucial. Our attorneys can guide you through the process, help you understand your legal rights, and increase your chances of being approved for benefits.
Expertise in navigating the complex system- We know what evidence is necessary to prove your disability, how to present that evidence effectively, and how to appeal a denial if necessary. We can also help you avoid common mistakes that could lead to a denial, such as missing deadlines or failing to provide sufficient medical documentation.
Valuable support throughout the process – We can answer your questions, provide regular updates on your case, and act as your advocate when dealing with the SSA or the Administrative Law Judge. We can also help you prepare for your hearing, which can be an intimidating and overwhelming experience.
Increase your chances of being approved for benefits – Statistics show that applicants who are represented by an attorney are more likely to be approved for benefits than those who are not. In fact, according to the Social Security Administration, having an attorney at the hearing stage of the appeals process can increase the likelihood of being approved by 50%.
Can Michael D. Christensen Law Offices Help Me With My Case?
Mike Christensen Law Offices is a leading law firm in Columbus, Ohio. Our experienced social security disability attorneys have successfully represented a lot of social security disability cases. Call us for consultations!
Social Security Disability & Lawyer FAQs
What is a Social Security Disability attorney?
A Social Security Disability attorney is a legal professional who specializes in assisting individuals who are seeking Social Security Disability benefits. They can help you with your claim by guiding you through the application process, gathering evidence to support your claim, representing you in hearings or appeals, and advocating for your legal rights.
How much does it cost to hire a Social Security Disability attorney?
Most Social Security Disability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. The fee is typically a percentage of your retroactive benefits, and the SSA sets a maximum amount that attorneys can charge. You should discuss fees with your attorney during the initial consultation.
How long does it take to receive Social Security Disability benefits with the help of an attorney?
The length of time it takes to receive Social Security Disability benefits can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of your case, the availability of evidence, and the backlog of cases in your area. With the help of an experienced attorney, you may be able to expedite the process and receive benefits sooner.
Can a Social Security Disability attorney help me if my claim has been denied?
Yes, a Social Security Disability attorney can help you appeal a denial of your claim. They can gather additional evidence, prepare you for a hearing, and represent you in front of an Administrative Law Judge.
How do I know if I need a Social Security Disability attorney for my claim?
If you’re struggling to navigate the Social Security Disability system, or if your claim has been denied, it’s a good idea to seek the assistance of a Social Security Disability attorney. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, gather necessary evidence, and advocate for your claim.