Social Security Disability Lawyer in Wilmington, NC

Social-Security-Disability-sign

If you’ve developed a medical condition that prevents you from working, Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can provide the financial support you need. However, the application process is complex and often stressful. Rather than navigate it yourself, turn to a Wilmington Social Security lawyer from Hardison & Cochran for trusted advice and dedicated advocacy. Contact us today for a free case review to discuss your options.

What Is Social Security Disability, and Who Qualifies?

Social Security Disability programs provide financial assistance and other benefits to people who meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of having a disability. A person may have a qualifying disability if they have a medical condition that substantially affects their ability to work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

The Social Security Administration operates two disability benefit programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Social Security Disability Insurance

SSDI provides disability benefits to workers who become disabled. A person may qualify for SSDI if they have a sufficient work history demonstrating their contribution to the Social Security system through the taxes on their earnings. Typically, applicants must have worked for 5 of the last 10 years to qualify. However, applicants under 24 may not have to work as long.

Supplemental Security Income

SSI provides financial benefits to low/no-income individuals who are at least 65 or have a disability. A person may qualify for SSI if they fall under the program’s monthly income and asset thresholds. SSI applicants must own less than $2,000 ($3,000 for married couples) in certain assets.

Navigating the SSD Application Process in Wilmington, NC

Disabled workers can apply for SSD benefits online through the Social Security Administration’s website or by calling the SSA’s toll-free number to schedule an appointment to apply at a local Social Security office or over the phone. The SSD application process typically takes six to eight months, although claims may take longer due to delays in providing additional information or appeals of denied claims.

An SSD applicant will need various information for their application, including:

  • Their personal information and documents
  • Contact information for their treating healthcare providers
  • Medical records and test results
  • A summary of their work history
  • Pay stubs, a W-2, tax returns, and other proof of income or financial resources

The Social Security Administration will first review the application to ensure the applicant meets the work history and substantial gainful activity requirements for SSDI or income and resource limits for SSI. Applicants who meet those requirements will have their application forwarded to the state Disability Determination Services office, which will review the applicant’s medical information and work capability to determine whether they have a qualifying disability.

If your application is denied, the process can get even more complicated. You’ll want a Social Security Disability attorney on your side to protect your rights and fight for your benefits.

Why SSD Claims Are Denied in Wilmington

Due to the Social Security Administration’s strict eligibility requirements for SSD benefits, most claims are initially denied. Some of the most frequent reasons for denials of SSD claims include:

  • Application errors – SSD applications may be rejected for incomplete or incorrect paperwork.
  • Non-qualifying medical condition – The Social Security Administration denies SSD claims if an applicant does not have a medical condition that qualifies as a disability.
  • Failure to pursue treatment – When an applicant doesn’t follow their healthcare provider’s treatment recommendations, the SSA may deny their claim. This shows the applicant is not committed to treating their condition, which could help them return to the workforce.
  • Lack of medical evidence – An applicant’s SSD claim will be denied if they don’t submit sufficient proof of a medical condition meeting the SSA’s definition of a disability.
  • Ability to perform substantial gainful activity – The Social Security Administration will deem an applicant not disabled if they earn more than the monetary threshold for what the SSA considers substantial gainful activity. The SSA will conclude that they can work and earn enough income to support themselves.
  • Insufficient work credits – Applicants without enough work credits and recent credits for their age will have their SSDI benefits application denied.
  • Too much income – The SSA will deny SSI claims if the applicant’s income and resources exceed the limits.
  • Failure to cooperate with the claim review process – The SSA often asks applicants to submit additional information or documentation. For example, the SSA may require updated medical records. They may also ask applicants to attend a consultative exam, where a third-party medical professional physically examines the applicant to supplement the medical evidence. They may deny claims when applicants refuse these requests and won’t cooperate with the claim review process.

A skilled Social Security Disability lawyer can help you avoid common mistakes when applying or pursue an appeal if your application is denied.

Benefits Available Through SSD

Social Security Disability can provide disabled workers with various SSDI or SSI benefits, such as:

  • Monthly financial payments based on the disabled worker’s contributions to the Social Security system for SSDI or financial need for SSI
  • Medicare coverage after receiving SSDI benefits for two years
  • Eligibility for the Ticket to Work program, which provides support services for disabled individuals seeking to return to the workforce with SSDI
  • Other resources, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or Medicaid with SSI

Talk to Our Experienced Wilmington Social Security Disability Lawyers Today

If you have a medical condition that impacts your ability to work or perform daily tasks, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Talk to the Social Security Disability lawyers at Hardison & Cochran to learn more about your legal rights and the process of applying for SSD benefits. Our firm has over 40 years of experience advocating for clients’ interests, and we have a proven track record of success in Social Security Disability cases. For example, our firm secured nearly $128,000 in back benefits for one client in Rocky Mount.

Our dedicated approach has earned us the trust and respect of our clients. As one SSD client, Jasmine W., said in a review:

“Blair and Chemil took the reigns and all I had to do was give them the information they needed to gather the documents they needed to present my case. I didn’t have to do much at all. Communication from the time I reached out to the time I was approved for full benefits was always prompt, friendly and professional. I had never sat before a judge, so I was very anxious but Blair made sure it was a simple and stress free experience. I was extremely pleased with this firm and would highly recommend them to anyone having trouble being approved for disability benefits or if you just have questions about the process.”

Don’t wait to get the help you need with your application. Contact Hardison & Cochran today for a free consultation with a Social Security lawyer to discuss how we can help you pursue the disability benefits you deserve.