Social Security Disability Benefits – Susan K. Bradley, Esq.

Do you wonder if you qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits? Have you started the process of applying for Social Security benefits and now realize you need help?

A person is considered eligible for disability benefits when they meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. In essence, disability means not being able to work any job because of a medical condition expected to last 12 months or results in death. (The exact statutory definition is the “inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months…”

Social Security regulations make it easier to be found disabled as you get older. If you’re over age 55 and you cannot perform the duties of any job you have held in the past 15 years, you are urged to apply. If you’re over age 50 and have a severe impairment that keeps you from performing all but the easiest jobs, you are likewise strongly recommended to apply.

You can apply for Social Security disability benefits over the phone, in person at a Social Security office, or online at the Social Security Administration’s website. If you want to apply in person, first call the SSA at (800) 772-1213 to schedule an appointment.

It is often difficult to convince the SSA that someone is “disabled”, even when he or she genuinely cannot work. Keep in mind that most applications for Social Security disability benefits are denied at this first stage. This doesn’t mean that you won’t get disability benefits eventually. If your disability keeps you from working, appeal your initial denial and any subsequent denials of your appeal. More than half of people who appeal their Social Security disability claim through the hearing level win their disability benefits.

Susan K. Bradley is paid only if you win and the SSA approves your claim for social security disability Contact me today at (615) 895-0030 to schedule a free consultation.

Or reach me by email at susan@wilsonbradleylaw.com.