Is a Social Security Lawyer Required for Reconsideration?
Posted by admin on Apr 19, 2009
Q: What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?
A: Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income are both disability benefits, but they are not the same. Those who have contributed to social security during their work history and have accumulated enough credits, are eligible for SSDI. To determine eligibility for SSDI, Social Security will look at the earnings history, time in workforce and earned credits of an individual. A credit is earned roughly every quarter of the year a person works and earns at least a minimum amount of income (established each year by Social Security). You are usually eligible for SSDI if you have earned 20 credits out of the past 40 quarters. SSI, on the other hand, is awarded based on financial need. SSI can be awarded, regardless of work history. SSI is awarded to those who make less than about $1400 monthly in income. An individual must report all wages, resources and income when applying for SSI. If you have any questions about whether you qualify for SSI or SSDI, contact a social security lawyer.
Q: Should I hire a social security lawyer if my application for disability was not approved?
A: You do not need to have a social security lawyer in order to appeal your claim. That being said, if your case was denied after the initial review, it would be wise to seek the counsel of a social security lawyer. You will need to file for reconsideration first. Most cases that have been reconsidered are not approved. The next step after reconsideration is to request a hearing for your case. It is strongly recommended that you have a social security lawyer for the hearing process. Your case has a better chance of being approved after a hearing, if you have the services of an attorney. You have peace of mind, as a social security lawyer will make sure that your claim is arbitrated fairly all the forms are completed correctly and on time. Additionally, a lawyer can help establish the best date of onset for your condition and file for any back pay benefits.
Q: Do I let my lawyer complete and submit all forms for social security disability benefits?
A: A social security lawyer will make sure that all forms are completed appropriately and on time. That being said, you should understand and know what paperwork is required. You should communicate with your lawyer frequently. Your lawyer will assist you, but there are some things that should be completed by you. The application for disability benefits and anything that involves your employment history, for example, can be filled out by you.
Social Security Lawyer Can Win For You
Posted by admin on Jan 21, 2009
Many people that apply for Social Security benefits take on the entire task by themselves, although hiring a Social security lawyer can make the process easier and simpler. Since errors made at the start of the application process results are a common occurrence, many claims for disability benefits are often denied. Fortunately, a qualified Social Security lawyer can help you appeal your case, which can result in a reversal of the decision to deny your application.
How long will it take before you are covered for Medicare?
Most people who are already receiving Social Security disability benefits will receive Medicare coverage automatically. Information about your Medicare benefits and your Medicare card will be sent to you shortly before you reach the age of 65 or before your 24th month of disability. If you do not currently receive Medicare benefits however, you may not be enrolled in the program automatically. You will then have to arrange for an appointment with the Social Security Administration. Upon the processing of your application, the Social Security office will then determine if you are eligible for the Medicare program.
What does it mean if you are short one credit for disability insurance?
One of the requirements for being eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits is that you should have received a certain number of credits for the work you have done during a specific period and you should have earned a specified amount during the ten years prior to your disability. A credit is equivalent to a quarter of the calendar year. According to Social Security regulations, you should have earned a specified amount in dollars during a quarter. To be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance, applicants need to have credits equivalent to at least 20 quarters or 5 years’ worth, over the past 40 quarters or the ten years previous to becoming disabled.
Working while you have a Social Security claim pending
A common misconception that many people have is that they cannot apply for Social Security disability benefits while they are working. The fact is that you CAN actually apply for benefits, make an appeal, and even receive social benefits while you are currently working. Keep in mind however that your monthly income cannot be higher than your SGA or substantial gainful activity amount, which is $900.00. The reason behind this restriction is that the Social Security Administration assumes that if you are able to work and earn more than the SGA, you are not legally considered disabled.