If you’re disabled, filing for Social Security in Elizabeth City, NC, can feel like navigating a maze. The Social Security Administration (SSA) receives millions of disability applications annually, most of which are initially rejected.
For individuals grappling with disabilities that leave them unable to work, Social Security Disability (SSD) can cover essential bills and medical expenses. It’s crucial for these individuals to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both programs can offer vital financial assistance.
However, living with a disability isn’t enough to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Applicants must prove their disability severely limits their work capabilities to file a successful claim.
As stated above, the SSA does not approve most disability claims. In an effort to prevent fraudulent claims, there are complex guidelines in place and strict eligibility criteria. Applicants must follow the claims process carefully and meet the SSA’s definition of disabled to qualify for benefits. The process is quite complex, especially for those who aren’t familiar with the SSA’s rules and regulations.
Filing a claim with the help of a disability attorney in Elizabeth City, NC, can increase your chances of receiving benefits. With over 29 years of experience helping disabled individuals apply for benefits, you can rely on O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group. We understand the SSA’s strict guidelines and take time to gather all the necessary documentation to build your case.
To schedule a free initial consultation with our law firm, contact us today.
SSA Guidelines
To qualify for disability benefits, you must meet the SSA’s definition of disabled. This means the following criteria must apply to your medical condition:
- Your impairment is medically diagnosable
- Your impairment has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months or result in death
- Your impairment prevents you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
If you’re applying for SSDI, your disability must prevent you from performing your current work duties, as well as adjusting to any new type of work. The SSA weighs factors like age and education when determining whether or not you can acquire new job skills.
The Importance of Medical Evidence When Applying for Disability Benefits
It’s crucial to provide the SSA with comprehensive medical evidence when filing a claim. This significantly increases your chances of being approved for benefits.
Medical documentation such as prescribed treatments, test results, doctor’s notes, etc., can illustrate the severity of your disability. Non-medical evidence can also be highly beneficial. For example, the SSA will accept testimonials from coworkers, caregivers, or family members describing how your disability affects your work capabilities and daily life.
Qualifying Disabilities
The Blue Book includes the following categories of qualifying impairments:
- Low Birth Weight and Failure to Thrive (for children only)
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Special Senses and Speech
- Respiratory Disorders
- Cardiovascular System Disorders
- Digestive System Disorders
- Genitourinary Disorders
- Hematological Disorders
- Skin Disorders
- Endocrine Disorders
- Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems
- Neurological Disorders
- Mental Disorders
- Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)
- Immune System Disorders
If your condition isn’t in the Blue Book, you can still qualify for SSD benefits. The SSA approves claims for unlisted disabilities if an applicant can prove their disability equals a listed impairment in severity. Applicants must provide comprehensive evidence highlighting the severity of their condition and how it prevents them from performing SGA.
In some cases, the Social Security Administration might consider a medical-vocational allowance. They will evaluate your age, education, work experience, and residual functional capacity (RFC) to determine your eligibility.
Why Choose O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group
For those unable to work due to a disability in Elizabeth City, Social Security benefits offer a financial lifeline. These benefits ensure that individuals have access to necessary resources for daily living, medical care, and support services. However, filing a claim is often easier said than done.
Understanding the complexities of qualifying conditions, as defined in the SSA’s Blue Book, can be daunting. This is where O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group steps in to offer unmatched legal counsel.
Our Social Security lawyers in Elizabeth City, NC, fully understand the complex legal and medical language surrounding disability claims. With our experience and education, we quickly identify how medical conditions align with the SSA’s criteria.
After over 29 years of handling a variety of disability cases, we’re skilled at assembling the necessary evidence to support all types of claims. From musculoskeletal and neurological disorders to mental health issues, we’re committed to helping clients get the benefits they deserve.
Additionally, we have extensive knowledge of Social Security Disability law. This means we are familiar with the rules, guidelines, and time constraints related to claims. When you work with our Social Security Disability lawyers, you can rest assured your application will be filed properly. We will meet all deadlines and ensure the SSA receives every piece of information necessary to give you the best chances of claim approval.
We Care About Our Clients
Choosing the right disability attorney in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, is paramount to the success of your claim. O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group stands out by offering personalized legal services. Unlike larger firms, we ensure direct communication with our clients.
Our dedication to serving the Elizabeth City community is unwavering. We understand the profound difficulties that come with living with a disability. This is why we work to alleviate the additional stress of having to prove your disability to secure benefits.
Whether you’re applying for the first time, filing an appeal, or have questions about how long it takes to get disability benefits, we can help. O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group is here to clarify the claims process and champion your case.
Contact Our Disability Lawyers in Elizabeth City, NC
O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group is not just a law firm, we are your disability advocates. Our Social Security Disability attorneys in Elizabeth City, NC, provide comprehensive support to every client, regardless of the complexity of their case.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
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