Having a medical condition or injury that makes you unable to work can be overwhelming and emotional. Facing physical and financial stress simultaneously will compound your struggle. While simply coming to terms with the need to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance can be emotional, facing the denial of benefits is frustrating. A Rossford, Ohio Social Security Disability attorney can help citizens who need help navigating the process.

How Do I Know if I’m Eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance?

Several factors go into determining your eligibility. When you file your initial claim, the agent assigned to your case will determine your eligibility based on:

  • Work Credits

You need to have worked a certain amount of time to be eligible for Social Security benefits. Usually, the caseworker will look at your work history for the ten years before your disability to verify you have been working for at least half the time (20 quarters of coverage over a ten-year period).

  • Ability to Engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

This is your ability to work. If the caseworker determines that you are able to earn above a certain threshold, even with your disability, they can deny your benefits.

  • Serious Medical Condition

The SSA defines a serious medical condition as one that is expected to result in death or is expected to last for a continuous period of twelve months or more. The medical condition must hinder your ability to work.

  • Exertional Limitations

The SSA will evaluate your ability to perform physical activities and how those will impact your ability to work. If your condition restricts you from performing physical tasks, it will strengthen your case.

  • Age

Older claimants are often more successful. The Medical-Vocational guidelines, often referred to as “grid rules” will evaluate your disability based on your age, education, work experience, and functional capacity to work.

How Long Does it Take to Get Approved for SSDI?

The approval process for SSDI is much longer than most people realize. Even if your initial application is approved, the process will take between 3-6 months.  Generally, you have 60 days to appeal, and then the appeals process will take another three to six months.  The wait for ALJ hearing averages over a year. If you have been denied after your initial application, the average approval will take 18-24 months when working with an attorney.

It can be very frustrating to wait this long when you are already facing financial stress due to your inability to work, but unfortunately, there is not much that can be done to accelerate the process. The best way to increase your chances of approval is to work with an attorney to strengthen your application and advocate on your behalf, if a hearing becomes necessary.

Very worried middle-aged woman who recently qualified for SSDI.

What Happens if My Claim Gets Denied?

The most important thing to consider if your initial application gets denied is not to lose hope and to begin the appeal process. Many applicants are denied after their initial application, usually because of insufficient medical evidence. If you have been denied benefits, contact an attorney as soon as possible to help you with the appeals process. At every stage there are very strict deadlines to file an appeal, and missing a deadline will forfeit your right to appeal. Once you hire a Social Security disability attorney in Rossford, Ohio, they can begin the appeal process on your behalf and gather any additional documentation and evidence to submit in a timely manner.

Preparing to Appeal a Denial of SSDI Benefits

The appeal process, as previously mentioned, has several stages. Ultimately, your preparation to appeal a denial of benefits should focus on gathering additional information, documentation, and evidence that supports your claim that you are unable to work. Although it may be obvious to you and your doctor that you are disabled, the process of demonstrating that in an application can be more difficult. This is where an attorney can help can make or break your claim.

The Social Security Administration may require you to go through additional testing, medical evaluations, and mental health evaluations. Once you have been denied, the important thing is to not lose hope, and to begin working with an attorney who can guide you through the process of gathering as well as presenting the evidence of your disability.

Benefits of Hiring an Attorney to Help with the Appeal Process

The SSDI application and appeal process can be long, confusing, and overwhelming. The primary benefit of hiring a social security and disability claims attorney in Rossford, Ohio is the experience and skill you will gain in your appeal. An experienced attorney with a thorough understanding of the process will be able to evaluate the reason your initial claim was denied, look for weaknesses in your application, and develop a strong strategy for your appeal.

Your attorney will help you gather additional information and evidence, such as additional medical records, that will strengthen your case. Your attorney may seek out expert opinions to include with your application. Once you have hired an attorney, you can allow your attorney to prepare documents and advocate on your behalf. If you need to attend a hearing, your attorney can assist you with questions, prepare your statements, and cross-examine potential witnesses. By having an attorney there to represent your interests and advocate on your behalf, the likelihood your claim will ultimately be approved is much higher.

How Much Does a Social Security and Disability Claims Attorney in Rossford, Ohio Cost?

The cost of an attorney is a real concern for Rossford, Ohio residents who are filing for disability. Adding additional attorney costs can seem overwhelming when you are already facing financial stress due to your inability to work. However, a Social Security disability claims attorney in Rossford, Ohio, may work with you on a contingent basis, meaning no attorney fees are paid unless you win, and no money is required up front.

Arthur Law Firm, Your SSDI Attorney

Don’t let an initial denial of benefits get you down. With the help of a skilled Social Security disability claims attorney, like Arthur Law Firm, your chances of success on your appeal is greatly increased, which can give you the peace of mind you need to move forward with your life. Call 419-782-9881 for a free consultation today.