Social Security
There are two main areas of social security that the firm handles. The first is obtaining benefits for someone who has paid in sufficient amounts to qualify for SSDI which is for a disability prior to retirement age. The second is SSI which is available to anyone who is disabled based on need. These are often confused. For either benefit, the person must be disabled. Each of these are discussed below.
SSI
To qualify for this type of benefit, you must fall within specific economic criteria. A person's income and assets are reviewed to determine whether the person is eligible regardless of whether or not the person is disabled.
SSDI
This type of disability benefit is based on the payments made by an individual over time. The amount of the benefit will be determined in accordance with what has been paid in by the individual. However, unlike SSI, there are no specific asset criteria upon which the benefit may be denied.
The procedure followed for both disability benefits is the same. An application must be filed with the Social Security Administration. If the application is denied, a person may ask for a reconsideration. If the reconsideration is also denied, then an appeal may be filed seeking a hearing before an administrative law judge. Each of these steps must be taken within specified time periods.
If you have applied for a benefit and have been denied, it may be worthwhile to seek legal counsel to represent your interests. We offer a free initial consultation.