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Social Security and Disability

Social Security applicants are granted or denied payments according to several criteria.  These criteria include work or military history, medical condition, education and age.  Unfortunately, many first-time Social Security applicants are denied.  Many are also denied again once they appeal the decision, forcing them to go to a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ) in order to obtain disability benefits.

Types of Social Security Benefits

There are two main types of Social Security benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).  Both of these programs are administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program that pays disability benefits to you and your family if you worked recently enough, long enough and paid into the Social Security program.
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are granted based on your financial necessity and don’t depend on your work history.

Applying for Social Security

If you haven’t applied for SSDI yet, you can do so online at the Social Security website.  If you need to apply for SSI benefits, you must do so either in person or over the phone. The Social Security Administration’s website does include instructions for applying for both SSDI and SSI, and features videos and other information to help you fill out your application for Social Security benefits.

O’Connor, Acciani & Levy helps claimants who have applied for Social Security but have been denied benefits.  The reason our Social Security lawyers do not help claimants before they apply is because the claimants may be granted benefits at the initial level before the attorney does any substantial work.  Our firm wants to ensure that you do not pay attorney fees needlessly.

You should apply for Social Security first, and then contact our Social Security lawyers if your application is denied, so that we can assist you in getting the benefits you deserve.

Why Seek the Help of a Social Security Lawyer?

The Social Security application process is long and complicated.  It can take up to 3 years to convince the Social Security Administration that you’re entitled to disability benefits, since many claimants must have their cases heard by an administrative law judge.  Incomplete or incorrect applications and missing medical records stall the process even further.

Those who have been injured or become ill are often lose their sources of income, making an award of Social Security benefits absolutely essential.  These applicants cannot wait long to receive benefits.  Applicants who are denied Social Security should seek the aid of an attorney, since an experienced Social Security attorney can greatly increase the chances that Social Security benefits are awarded in a more timely manner, compared to those who do not have help presenting their claims to the Social Security Administration.

A  Social Security attorney can help an applicant’s chances in several ways:

  • An attorney can help make the application process is faster and more efficient.
  • Attorneys properly develop the case to reduce mistakes and delays.
  • An attorney’s familiarity with the SSI/SSDI system allows them to aggressively pursue benefits for their clients.

The Social Security lawyers at the law firm of O’Connor Acciani & Levy Co., LPA want to help you with your Social Security case. Our attorneys will ensure that your case is well prepared and ready for evaluation by the time of the hearing.

O’Connor, Acciani & Levy is here to answer your questions about Social Security.  Our attorneys make sure you understand the entire process of applying for Social Security benefits.  For an immediate free evaluation of your Social Security benefit case, or for information about our comprehensive Social Security services, please contact us today at 877-288-3241.