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Social Security Disability Lawyer in Sacramento
Helping Clients Throughout Sacramento County Get The Benefits They Deserve
Social Security benefits — Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) — do not come automatically. In Sacramento and Northern California, most applications are initially denied. If you need SSD benefits, if your claim was delayed, or if you believe your claim was wrongly denied, speak with Smolich and Smolich immediately.
Understanding the Social Security Disability Application Process
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can often feel daunting and complicated. At Smolich and Smolich, our seasoned SSD attorneys in Sacramento are here to assist you through every stage of the application process, ensuring that you maximize your chances of securing the benefits you are entitled to.
Here are some key points to know about the SSD application process:
- The application process can be lengthy and requires thorough documentation of your medical condition and work history.
- Having a knowledgeable SSD attorney on your side can help you navigate the complex requirements and increase your chances of approval.
- If your initial application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision and request a hearing before an administrative law judge.
- Working with a skilled SSD attorney can help you prepare for your disability hearing and present a strong case for approval.
You don’t need to attempt to apply for SSD on your own. Get the help and direction to obtain the benefits you are entitled to by getting in touch with our Social Security Disability attorney right away.
Social Security Disability
Qualifying Conditions For SSDI
Due to the complexity and uncertainty surrounding the social security disability system and application process, many people are unsure if they qualify to receive benefits, even if they have a condition that prevents them from being able to work, either in limited or total capacity. The good news is that a wide variety of conditions qualify you to receive benefits.
If you are unsure whether or not you qualify, it is strongly suggested that you speak with one of our Sacramento SSD lawyers to find out more about your conditions qualify you. Our team is deeply familiar with social security law and the application process. We can help you submit an application that will maximize your chances of being accepted the first time you submit it.
Some conditions that can qualify you for SSD income benefits include:
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDs
- Hepatitis
- Diabetes
- Multiple sclerosis
- Cerebral palsy
- Severe anemia
- Lyme disease
- Lupus
- Graves’ Disease
- Loss of limb or digit
- Diabetes
- Cardiac conditions
- Brain trauma
This is not an exhaustive list; many other conditions could qualify you to receive benefits. Suppose you have one of these conditions and need financial assistance from the social security system. In that case, providing as much valid and valuable evidence of your condition and its impact on your application is crucial to maximizing the chances of an accepted application.
Is There a Waiting Period for Social Security Disability Benefits?
One of the most important things to remember is that benefits do not begin on the date you were found disabled. There is a five-month waiting period before you can receive benefits. If you submit your application well after you were found disabled, you will only be eligible for 12 months worth of back benefits.
In other words, your benefits will begin on whichever date comes later, either 12 months before your date of application or five months after the date you were found disabled.
Common SSD/SSI Myths
Because the Social Security process is so complex and often leads to frustration after a denied claim, a number of myths have begun to circulate regarding the application process and other aspects of the Social Security programs. At Smolich and Smolich, our Sacramento Social Security disability lawyers can set the record straight on these myths and provide you with reputable legal advice to give your claim the best chance at success.
All New Claims Are Denied On First Application
Recent statistics say that about one in three claims is accepted on its first application. Now, these are not particularly good odds (since roughly two out of three are denied), but the advice and experience of a skilled attorney can help maximize your chances of having your claim accepted the first time.
Disability Hearings Guarantee Claim Acceptance
The actual reality is that there is no statistical way to back this up. Judges deny several claims, and the odds of your claim being denied mainly depend on your particular judge's acceptance/denial rates. While over 50% of claims heard in SSD court are accepted, there is still no guarantee that your claim will be.
I Cannot Receive SSD and Other Benefits Simultaneously
For people who qualify for both social security disability and supplemental security income, you could receive both benefits simultaneously. While it is not particularly common, there is a chance you could potentially be awarded both forms of income. You may also be able to receive SSD and workers’ compensation benefits simultaneously. An SSD attorney can help you better determine which programs you qualify for and provide highly personalized assistance for whichever applications you need.
Social Security Is For Older Workers
There is no age limit to qualify for SSD benefits, and in many cases, younger people require fewer work credits to be eligible to receive them. Additionally, disabled children may be able to receive benefits if their working parent qualifies. While most SSD collectors are older people, do not let your age stop you from discovering whether or not you are eligible to receive the benefits you need.
Maximize Your Social Security Disability Benefits
Having an informed and competent lawyer at your side is crucial when navigating the challenging Social Security Disability application procedure. At Smolich and Smolich, our Sacramento SSD lawyers are committed to assisting clients in Sacramento County to increase their likelihood of obtaining the benefits they are entitled to.
Benefits of working with our SSD attorneys include:
- Expert guidance through the application process
- Assistance in gathering necessary medical evidence and documentation
- Representation at disability hearings to present your case effectively
- Maximizing the amount of benefits you are eligible to receive
- Peace of mind knowing your case is in capable hands
Reach out to request a consultation and get experienced support for when you apply for benefits.
Contact Our Social Security Disability Attorney Today
We can answer questions about your eligibility for SSD and SSI. Do you want assistance with your initial application? Let us make sure it is done right the first time. Has your application been denied? Do not give up. You still may be able to get Social Security benefits. We will stand by your side through all Social Security Disability appeals stages.
In all stages of the process, communication of medical details is critical. We must take the time to comprehend how your condition has prevented you from working, and we must convey that information to the Social Security Administration in a manner that can be easily understood. Many initial applications are denied simply because the information was missing or not conveyed. When attempting to overcome a denied SSD claim, we ensure that your condition is communicated properly.
Local Support for Social Security Disability Applicants in Sacramento
Living in Sacramento, you know that navigating the Social Security Disability (SSD) system can be particularly challenging. With local government entities like the Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance and resources such as the Sacramento Public Library offering valuable information, it's crucial to have a knowledgeable advocate. At Smolich and Smolich, we understand the unique challenges faced by residents in Sacramento County and are here to help you every step of the way.
One of the common pain points for Sacramento residents is the high rate of initial SSD application denials. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you are already dealing with the stress of a disability. Our team is well-versed in the local procedures and can help you gather the necessary documentation, from medical records to employment history, to strengthen your application.
Additionally, the appeal process can be daunting. If your initial application is denied, you can appeal and request a hearing before an administrative law judge. Our attorneys are experienced in preparing for these hearings and can help you present a compelling case. We know the local administrative judges and understand what they are looking for in a successful appeal.
Whether in Downtown Sacramento, Arden-Arcade, or Elk Grove, our team is committed to helping you secure the SSD benefits you deserve. We are familiar with the local landscape and the specific challenges of living in Sacramento County. Reach out to us today to get the local support you need to navigate the SSD application process successfully.
Contact Smolich and Smolich to schedule a consultation with our Sacramento social security disability lawyer!
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I work while applying for Social Security Disability benefits?
You are allowed to work while applying for Social Security Disability benefits; however, your income must remain below a specified threshold. Exceeding the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit established by the Social Security Administration can impact your eligibility for these benefits.
Can I apply for Social Security Disability benefits online?
Certainly, you can submit an application for Social Security Disability benefits via the official Social Security Administration website. This online process offers a convenient way to fill out and send your application from home.