If you are unable to maintain employment because you have suffered an injury or illness, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. These benefits typically come in the form of monthly payments and Medicare/Medicaid health insurance that help recipients cover essential expenses while they care for their health.
The process of successfully obtaining Social Security Disability benefits is challenging. At Graham Law, our Social Security Disability attorneys will handle the specialized needs of your case, from filing appeals and compiling medical records, to corresponding with the Social Security office and handling necessary court appearances, allowing you to focus on receiving the medical treatments you need as well as your recovery.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss the particulars of your case, contact us to schedule a consultation with our Zanesville Social Security Disability Attorneys today. We also have a second office in Cambridge, Ohio where you can book a free consultation with a Cambridge Social Security Disability attorney.
SSDI vs. SSI
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two separate programs administered by the Social Security Administration. Each has different eligibility requirements.
SSDI is designed for people who have worked a certain number of years and have contributed to Social Security through taxation. If you are insured and become disabled, you may be eligible. Once approved, you and certain family members may receive monthly payments.
Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is a needs-based financial assistance program for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, and/or 65 years of age and older. SSI does not require an individual to have worked for a certain number of years. SSI eligibility does, however, require an individual’s income and resources to be below specific levels. An individual whose medical condition meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability may be eligible for SSI.
Graham Law’s Social Security Disability attorneys will help you navigate the process of obtaining disability benefits. We are here to work through the difficulties of submitting an initial application, filing administrative and federal court appeals, attending hearings, and helping you get the compensation you deserve.
What Qualifies a Person to be Disabled in Ohio?
To qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits in Ohio, an individual must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. The evaluation process considers both the severity of the impairment and the individual’s ability to work, with various criteria for specific conditions listed in the SSA’s Blue Book. Understanding these qualifications is important for individuals seeking SSD benefits.
How Does the Social Security Administration Make Its Decisions in Ohio?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a structured process to make decisions regarding disability claims in Ohio. This process involves evaluating whether an individual meets the medical and vocational criteria for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Understanding how the SSA makes its decisions is helpful for navigating the claims process.
Denied Social Security Disability Benefits?
If you have been denied Social Security disability benefits, it does not necessarily mean you are not eligible. If you feel your application has been wrongfully denied, contact us to book a free consultation. Our Social Security Disability attorneys in Cambridge and Zanesville, Ohio may be able to help you file a Request for Reconsideration. Our team of SSDI and SSI attorneys may be able to help collect the necessary supplemental information and provide valuable assistance during the hearing process.
Stages of the Appeals Process
Navigating the appeal process can be difficult and time-consuming. Our team of Social Security Disability attorneys at Graham Law can help with this.
Stage #1: Initial Application
The initial application for Social Security benefits can be completed through the Social Security Administration’s online application or by calling your local office. It is important to note that, according to the Social Security Administration, only about 21% of applicants are awarded benefits at the initial application level.
Stage #2: Request for Reconsideration
A Request for Reconsideration should be filed within 65 days after the date an initial application is denied. Our attorneys may be able to help you collect the necessary medical documentation to support your application and help you meet the relevant deadlines.
Stage #3: Request for Hearing
If your Request for Reconsideration is denied, you again will have another 65 days after the date your Request of Reconsideration is denied to file a Request for Hearing. The hearing takes place before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) who will review your claim. Graham Law attorneys will help present and defend your case during the hearing.
Stage #4: Appeals Council
If your claim is denied by the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), we are able to help you appeal the decision before the Appeals Council, which will decide whether the judge made the appropriate decision. At this stage, the Appeals Councils may choose to uphold the ALJ’s decision, or overrule the ALJ’s decision to either pay you benefits, or remand your case for a new hearing.
Stage #5: Federal Court
If your Appeals Council request is denied, our team of attorneys at Graham Law may be able to help you file a civil action against the federal government to appeal the decision in Federal Court.
Contact Our Social Security Disability Attorneys for A Free Consultation
There are many nuances to Social Security Disability law. At Graham Law, we prioritize making your claim as smooth as possible. If you feel that your claim was wrongfully denied or would like more information regarding the process, make an appointment with one of our Social Security Disability attorneys and see how we might be of help. Our initial consultation is always free of charge. Contact us to schedule yours today.
