At The Boston Law Firm, in Macon, Georgia, our lawyers are dedicated to informing disabled people about their options. We take the time to answer your questions about Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Our clients come to us with questions such as these:
- What is the difference between SSDI and SSI? SSDI is for people who worked and paid sufficient amounts into the system before they were disabled. In some cases, you can qualify for SSDI if your spouse or parent worked. SSI is for people who do not have enough work time to be eligible for disability benefits, but are still disabled from work activity. If your spouse works and you are disabled, you cannot receive SSI, but you can receive SSDI.
- How do I fill out the initial application? You can visit the local Social Security office, complete the application online or schedule a telephone interview. You will need to gather all the relevant information, such as names, addresses and phone numbers of employers and doctors who have treated you.
- Do I need an attorney? You do not have to have a lawyer to file an SSDI or SSI claim. However, your chances of success are almost better if you work with an experienced disability lawyer. One reason to do this is to avoid common mistakes that can slow the progress of your claim. Another reason is that an attorney knows exactly which types of documents are needed and how to get them. Finally, an SSD lawyer knows how to present all the evidence and documentation in a way that supports your case.
- What if I can't afford an attorney? Our law firm handles SSD and SSI claims on a contingency basis. This means that we do not get paid unless we succeed in helping you obtain benefits. This gives us a strong incentive to everything we can to ensure the success of our clients' claims.
- What happens if my claim is denied? The claims process includes the opportunity to appeal, or request a reconsideration. If your claim is denied and you wish to continue to pursue it, it is a good idea to hire an attorney if you have not already done so.
- How do I get the medical evidence and expert opinions? You can request them yourself, but if you have an attorney to help with your claim, he or she can do it for you. The advantage of having experienced assistance is that your documentary record will contain all the required information, but no more.
- Is there any way to speed up the process? You can request an expedited review of your claim in emergency situations.
- How do I prove disability? You must be able to demonstrate that you are unable to return to any type of full time work. Our attorneys can advise you about the method that will best illustrate your disability.
Our lawyers are able to obtain maximum benefits for disabled people by analyzing their situations carefully, exploring opportunities to draw upon multiple sources of compensation. For example, a person who is unable to work because of a trucking accident may also be able to file a personal injury claim against the responsible party's insurance company in addition to a SSD claim.
For more questions and answers about Social Security Disability, contact our Macon law firm. Call us at 478-845-1796 for a free initial consultation.
