If you have recently become disabled and are incapable of earning a living, you may have the right to specific types of benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Securing Social Security Disability benefits should be a top priority if you hope to avoid financial ruin and get your finances back on track.
Whether you are seeking Supplemental Security Income (SSI) after a car accident or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits after a slip and fall or work injury, you need a reputable South Carolina Social Security disability lawyer working for you. As much as 70% of SSD claims are denied annually. Take action when you contact Shelly Leeke Law Firm for a free consultation today.
What Social Security Disability Benefits Are
There are two primary types of SSD benefits. First, there is Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is generally available to individuals dealing with severe disabilities that prevent them from being able to work. To qualify for SSI, you must be considered low-income and meet other eligibility requirements.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are much different. This is a program you pay into with your annual wages. Each paycheck, a portion of your earnings is taken out and allocated towards the SSDI program. Then, when you become disabled and are no longer able to work, you can apply for SSDI payments. You must have paid into the SSDI program to qualify.
Whether you are seeking SSI or SSDI benefits, it is not unusual for applicants to initially be denied. Unfortunately, it is often not until you hire a Social Security disability lawyer in Cayce to advocate for your rights that the SSA takes your claim seriously. The sooner you get an attorney working on your case, the sooner your application could be approved.
How a Social Security Disability Lawyer in Cayce, SC, Can Help
Having a dedicated Cayce Social Security disability attorney on your side could make a difference in your ability to access the SSI or SSDI benefits you are entitled to receive. It is not unusual for applicants to face claim denials. This may be because the SSA representatives have determined you are not dealing with a qualifying condition or because you made a mistake on your application, for example.
When you have an experienced legal advocate working for you, you can focus on the important things in life, such as spending time with your family, receiving medical treatment, and making the most of your time, while we handle the legalities. Some of our top priorities will include:
- Ensuring your paperwork is filled out completely and correctly
- Addressing any questions or concerns you might have about the claims process or how SSD works
- Protecting your rights
- Advocating for you during your SSD hearing
- Helping you understand how the Social Security Disability claims process works
- Reviewing your case to determine which SSD benefits you are eligible for
- Gathering medical records and other evidence to support your case
How Much SSD Pays in South Carolina
The amount SSD recipients receive from the SSA changes annually. According to the SSA, in 2023, the maximum amount SSDI recipients can receive is $2,460. The maximum amount of SSI benefits recipients can receive in 2023 is $914.
Multiple factors will be taken into consideration when SSA representatives determine how much you should be awarded Social Security Disability benefits. If you have been approved for SSD benefits but disagree with how much you have been allocated, you can speak with your SSD attorney to determine whether you can appeal and access additional compensation.
How the SSD Claims Process Works
It is common for people dealing with debilitating disabilities to find the Social Security Disability claims process particularly complex. You may feel intimidated thinking about going up against this massive government organization, particularly when your initial application has been denied.
Understanding how the claims process works can help you prepare accordingly and reduce stress or anxiety levels along the way. Although every person’s case is different, here is a general idea of what to expect when you decide to apply for SSDI or SSI benefits:
- You fill out your SSDI application and include all necessary supporting documents and information
- SSA representatives review your application and may reach out with questions regarding your case
- SSA representatives make a decision
Many SSD claims are initially denied. If you receive a denial, do not lose hope. Usually, when SSD applicants get the legal support they need, denials are more likely to be overturned.
Options if Your SSD Claim Is Denied
You are not without options if the SSA denies your Social Security Disability claim. There are several stages to the appeals process. We may be able to avoid a formal appeal by simply reaching out to SSA representatives and providing them with additional information, evidence, or correct mistakes.
However, the appeals process includes multiple stages, which include the following:
- Reconsideration by another SSA representative
- A hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Having your case reviewed before the Appeals Council
- Obtaining a Federal Court Review
Most SSD appeals are resolved in a hearing before an ALJ or through reconsideration. However, your SSD attorney at Shelly Leeke Law Firm will be prepared to advocate for your rights even if we need to seek an Appeals Council review or move your case forward to a federal court review.
Meet with a Social Security Disability Attorney in Cayce, SC, Today
SSI and SSDI benefits are essential if you are struggling to cope with a permanent disability or are unable to provide for yourself and your family. Do not let the SSA get away with wrongfully denying you the benefits you need. With help from an experienced and knowledgeable Cayce Social Security Disability lawyer at Shelly Leeke Law Firm, you can get through these difficult times and get your application for Social Security Disability benefits approved.
Learn more about what is next for your case when you contact our office for a 100% free consultation. You can reach us via our convenient contact form or by phone to get started on your application or begin preparing for your hearing as soon as today.
