Physical Disability Claims in Logan

If you cannot work due to a physical disability, the Social Security Disability Income program and the Supplemental Security Income program could help you. Both programs are run by the Social Security Administration (SSA), but their qualification requirements are different. An experienced SSDI attorney who is adept at physical disability claims in Logan can guide you through the complicated application process.

Physical Disability for SSDI

The Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) program is available to adults with disabilities that prevent them from earning substantial gainful employment. Workers who pay Social Security taxes deducted from his or her paycheck can earn one work credit every quarter. An individual must have at least 40 work credits to qualify for SSDI. Younger workers who become disabled may be able to receive SSDI with fewer credits.

Many physical disabilities can be considered for these benefits, including heart or lung disease, back pain, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, arthritis, brain injuries, and many others that involve something that can be physically diagnosed.

Only those with a disability that will prevent them from working for at least one year, or that will end in death, are eligible for SSDI. The SSA closely reviews applications to ensure each applicant’s condition meets its definition of total disability. Our attorneys can ensure a Logan applicant gathers all the medical information necessary to verify that their physical disability entitles him or her to SSDI benefits.

If approved, a disabled person will receive SSDI benefits until he or she is no longer disabled or has reached full retirement age. The amount of a disabled person’s SSDI benefits depends on how much he or she was earning before becoming disabled.

Physical Disability for SSI

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides funds for basic needs to certain people with disabilities. Children and individuals who have never worked can qualify for SSI. The program is also available to those who have worked but not accumulated enough work credits to qualify for SSDI payments.

There are, however, strict eligibility requirements for SSI. An applicant’s income must be below a certain level, and there are restrictions on the assets he or she can own. The applicant must also have proof that their disability prevents them from earning more than the threshold amount.

It can be challenging to understand SSI’s complex income and asset restrictions. Proving that a disability prevents an applicant from earning enough to support themselves can require substantial documentation. A Logan attorney from our firm can compile and organize the necessary materials to increase the odds your physical disability application will be approved.

Appealing Disability Claims Decisions

The SSA denies many initial applications for disability benefits, and appeals are a part of the process for most applicants. When an initial application is denied, a disabled person has 60 days to file a request for reconsideration. A different team of reviewers will examine the information submitted in the initial claim, and reconsiderations can result in an approval of denied benefits.

If reconsideration is unsuccessful, an applicant may request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). While less formal than a trial in court, the ALJ can hear testimony and consider new evidence. With the help of a Logan attorney, an ALJ hearing may result in the approval of an application for physical disability benefits.

Work With a Logan Attorney If You Are Seeking Physical Disability Benefits

SSI or SSDI benefits can make a huge difference if you cannot work to support yourself. However, receiving the benefits you deserve involves a long and complicated process. Our attorneys are skilled at handling physical disability claims in Logan. Your initial consultation is free, so reach out to us if you are preparing or appealing an application due to heart disease, back pain, brain injury, or some other condition.