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Social Security Disability - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if I am "disabled" enough to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits?

A: The Social Security Administration (SSA) says that a successful applicant for disability benefits must be completely disabled. This is unlike some other programs and insurance policies that assist partially disabled persons. The disability must be a physical or mental impairment that is expected to last at least one year (or has already lasted one year) or will result in the applicant's death. This does not mean, however, that the applicant has to be permanently disabled.

Q: What if my application for benefits is denied?

A: If your application is denied, you may appeal the decision. There are several levels of appeal: reconsideration of your claim; a hearing with an administrative law judge (ALJ); review by the Appeals Council; and review by the federal district court. You have a limited time in which to file the appeals, however. The advice and assistance of an attorney can help you make a stronger case during the appeals process.

No one should ever apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) without a qualified attorney. At the Law Office of Paul M. Goodson, we have extensive experience guiding clients through the complex paperwork, procedures, and hearings required to acquire benefits from Social Security Disability Insurance.

Unfortunately, most legitimate initial benefit claims are denied. However, the success rate in gaining Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is significantly increased when you have an experienced lawyer representing your interests. We have offices in Gastonia, Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte, North Carolina to handle social security cases. When a disability prevents you from working for more than a year or even permanently, shouldn't you have the law office of Paul M. Goodson working to help you?

If you are seeking (or have been denied) Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), please contact The Law Office of Paul M. Goodson. We routinely represent clients throughout North Carolina including people in Charlotte, Gastonia, Concord, and Kannapolis, and Salisbury. Our lawyers are committed to helping people disabled workers receive the benefits they are entitled to under the law.

Social Security Disability - An Overview

If you are considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits, or if you are in the midst of appealing a denial of benefits, it is important to understand the Social Security Administration's approval process. In addition to meeting the definition of "disabled" and fulfilling the earnings requirements that the Social Security Administration dictates, you must present a convincing and organized application. An experienced Social Security Disability attorney can offer insight and guidance in your pursuit of benefits.

An impairment that qualifies as a disability under Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines must be quite serious. The impairment must render the applicant unable to perform any substantial gainful activity — that is, the applicant must not be able to earn more than a minimum amount of money, determined each year by the SSA.

The impairment must completely disable the applicant. It must be expected to last for a year, have already lasted a year or be expected to cause the applicant's death. But this is not the end of the qualifying tests.

What Are Social Security Disability Benefits?

If your disability prevents you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security Administration provides monthly benefits to people who meet strict criteria concerning work history and disability level. Because the application and appeals process can be complex, the assistance of an attorney can be enormously helpful. Contact an attorney for more information.

Who Is Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits?

The federal Social Security Disability program provides benefits to qualified disabled individuals. The program sets out numerous requirements for recipients, including a strict definition of disability and a minimum work history. If you have questions about whether you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance, contact a lawyer to learn more.

The Social Security Disability Application Process

If you become disabled and your condition is expected to last for at least one year (or end in death), consider applying for Social Security Disability benefits. The sooner you start the application process, the less time you will have to wait for your benefits. The process can take a long time and require intensive documentation. It may be necessary to appeal a negative decision. The help of an attorney can guide you through the complex and demanding process.

The Decision and Appeal

The Social Security Disability benefits application and appeals process can seem daunting. The more you know, however, the better your chance of presenting your application in the best light possible. If you receive a negative decision, you have several opportunities to appeal it. Speak with an attorney to learn your options and plan your strategy.

Social Security Disability - Resource Links

Social Security Online
The US Social Security Administration (SSA) is dedicated to protecting individuals' economic security through programs including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Disability Benefits
Look here for useful information from the Social Security Administration (SSA) about Social Security Disability benefits and how to apply for them.

Medline Plus: Disabilities
The US National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health provide health information and numerous other resources for people with disabilities.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Disability
The CDC and the Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities (OMHD) provide this informative Web page with disability demographics and resources for people with disabilities.

What You Should Know before You Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits
The Social Security Administration answers frequently asked questions about Social Security Disability benefits.