Every American looks forward to the day when he or she can receive back from Social Security some of what we’ve paid in over the years. What some people don’t know is that the Social Security Administration (SSA) also administers two benefit programs for those who are disabled and can’t work. If you need to receive monthly disability benefits, you’ll first need to determine if you qualify for one of the two programs. It’s not easy to obtain benefits, and it’s not easy to understand the process, either. That’s why, if you’re disabled in southern California and unable to work, you should have the advice and services of an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability attorney. A good disability lawyer can assess your particular circumstances and may be able to help you obtain the Social Security disability benefits you need.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are based on what you’ve earned in the last ten years. If you haven’t earned a sufficient amount in the last ten years to qualify for SSDI, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Once you’ve determined which program is appropriate for you, you still have to convince the SSA. That’s probably the best reason to work with a good Social Security disability lawyer. Initial benefit applications are often denied, but you may have several opportunities to appeal that initial decision. A skilled and experienced Social Security disability attorney can often help applicants win an appeal.
To qualify for either program, your medical condition must be severe. You must be unable to work – at all – due to a physical or mental illness, an injury, or a deteriorating physical or mental health condition. Mental health disabilities are harder to prove, but a good Social Security disability lawyer can compile and present evidence and expert testimony on your behalf. In southern California, those in need of disability benefits should not hesitate to call and speak with an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability attorney as quickly as possible.