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 people with disabilities who are unable to work, Social Security Disability (SSD) can cover bills and medical expenses. It’s crucial for these individuals to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to secure financial assistance. However, living with a disability isn’t enough to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Applicants must show that their disability greatly limits their ability to work to file a successful claim.
As stated above, the SSA does not approve most initial 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 disability to qualify.
The process is confusing, especially for those who aren’t familiar with the SSA’s rules and regulations. Filing with the help of a disability attorney in Elizabeth City, NC, can increase your chances of receiving benefits.
With over 30 years of combined experience helping disabled people apply for SSD, you can rely on the team at O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group. We understand the SSA’s strict guidelines and take time to collect all the documents needed to support your case.
To set up a free initial consultation, contact us today.
How To Qualify for Disability Benefits: SSA Guidelines
To qualify for disability benefits, you must meet the SSA’s definition of disability. This means the following criteria must apply to your medical condition:
- You have a medically diagnosed impairment
- 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)
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 important to give the SSA comprehensive medical evidence when you file a claim. This greatly boosts your chances of getting 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 beneficial. For example, the SSA will accept testimonials from coworkers, caregivers, or family members. These statements should explain how your disability affects your work and daily life.
Qualifying Disabilities
The SSA references the Blue Book, or Listing of Impairments, when reviewing disability claims. It 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 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’s condition equals a listed impairment in severity.
In some cases, the SSA might consider a Medical-Vocational Allowance. This is for people who can’t work due to a condition or multiple conditions that don’t satisfy the SSA’s medical criteria. The SSA will evaluate your age, education, work experience, and residual functional capacity (RFC) to determine your eligibility.
Filing a Social Security Disability Appeal in Elizabeth City, NC
If your initial Social Security Disability claim was denied, your case is far from over. In fact, most SSD claims are denied at the initial application stage. Fortunately, you have the right to appeal the decision.
At O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group, we regularly help clients through the multi-step appeals process. We help you understand why your claim was denied and work quickly to gather the evidence needed to move forward with a strong appeal.
Common reasons for denial include insufficient medical records, missed deadlines, or the SSA determining that the applicant can still work.
We handle three levels of appeal:
- Request for Reconsideration
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearings
- Appeals Council Review
Appealing a denial can feel overwhelming. That’s why our Social Security Disability appeals attorneys in Elizabeth City manage all deadlines, paperwork, and hearing preparation. We also guide you through what to expect during each phase of the process and how to strengthen your claim.
If you’ve been denied, the appeals process is your chance to make a compelling case. We’re here to help you do it. Contact our disability appeals lawyers today!
Why Choose Us When Filing Your Disability Claim?
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 the necessary resources for daily living and medical care. 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 reliable 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 many years of practicing Social Security Disability law, we’re skilled at gathering the necessary evidence to support all types of claims. From musculoskeletal disorders to mental health issues, we’re committed to helping clients get the benefits they deserve.
We’re familiar with the rules, guidelines, and time constraints related to claims. When you work with our Social Security Disability lawyers, you can rest assured that your application will be filed properly. We’ll meet every deadline and ensure the SSA receives all necessary information to give you the best chances of 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 difficulties that come with living with a disability. We work to reduce the stress of having to prove your disability to get 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, offer complete support to every client, regardless of the complexity of their case.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Call Us Today!