Social Security Disability
Michigan Lawyers in Southfield
Social Security Disability and Social Security Income
If you are disabled and unable to work, you may be able to qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Your claim will be evaluated based on the extent of your disability and whether you have met the Social Security Administration's requirements for earnings according to your work history. The follow are factors that determine eligibility for SSD benefits:
- Sufficient work credits
- Impairment that has lasted or is predicted to last at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death
- Extent and nature of impairment
- Ability to take part in substantial gainful activity since impairment began
- Date the disability started
Generally, anyone who has worked for five out of the previous ten years will have earned enough work credits to qualify. Depending on the disabled person's accumulated work credits, his or her family may also qualify for benefits. The surviving family of the deceased with sufficient SSA work credits prior to dying, may also qualify for SSD benefits.
Denial of Social Security Disability
Over 70 percent of Social Security Disability initial applications are denied. We can help you increase the likelihood of success by assisting you with your initial application. Once denied each applicant has the right to appeal. Seeking legal guidance after denial increases your chances of approval on appeal. During the first appeal of a denied claim, a different official will review written evidence and any additional evidence presented in support of the claim. If there is a second appeal it will be heard by an administrative law judge in a hearing. Beyond this appeal, there is the right to appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council. Final appeals are submitted to the federal court system.
Social Security Income
Aside from Social Security Disability benefits, there are other benefits for low income disabled children and adults available under Social Security Income Benefits (SSI). The factors considered in order to determine eligibility under SSI are the same as factors under SSD, with the exception of income, which must fall within the range of SSI income limits. In considering income, SSI takes into account the income of household family members, other benefits being received, savings and certain assets.
At the Law Offices of Erlich, Rosen, Bartnick & Cook, our lawyers encourage you to arrange a consultation at no cost or obligation with one of our attorneys if you or a loved one have been denied Social Security benefits. We can assist you with your appeal and increase the likelihood of receiving benefits. Call us at 877-453-2840 or contact us online to arrange an appointment.
