Lake Charles
Social Security Lawyer

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a payroll tax-funded, federal insurance program of the United States government. Managed by the Social Security Administration, it is designed to provide income to people who are unable to work because of a disability. SSDI is intended to be provided until their condition improves, and is intended to guarantee income if the individual's condition does not improve.

If you are experiencing difficulty with an initial claim or appeal for Social Security benefits, contact an experienced social security lawyer at the Townsley Law Firm today for a free initial consultation by calling toll free (800) 433-3305 or by submitting the form on this page.

Qualification

According to the Social Security Administration, a person qualifies for Social Security Disability Insurance if they:

• have a physical or mental condition that prevents them from engaging in any "substantial gainful work", and
• the condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, and
• they are under the age of 65, and
• have worked 5 out of the last 10 years

The work requirement is waived for applicants who can prove that they became disabled at or before the age of 22, as these individuals may be allowed to collect on their parent's insurance or parents' work credits. In such situations, the parents experience no loss of benefits.

Medical evidence that demonstrates the applicant's inability to work is required. The applicant may meet a Social Security Administration medical listing for their condition. If their condition does not meet the requirements of a listing, their residual functional capacity is considered, along with their age, past relevant work, and education, in determining their ability to perform either their past work, or other work generally available in the national economy.

Wait time for applications

The amount of time it takes for an application to be approved or denied varies, depending on the level of the process at which the award is made. The Social Security Administration estimates that the initial benefits application will take 90-120 days, but in practice filings can take up to eight months to complete. The appeals process for denied filings can likewise take 90 days to well over a year to get a hearing, depending on caseloads.

Likelihood of receiving benefits

Nationwide statistics provided by the Social Security Administration in 2005 stated that 52 percent of all Social Security Disability Insurance applications are ultimately approved. The same statistic implies that as much as 48 percent, or nearly half of them, are denied. In fact, estimates have shown that over 60% of initial claims for Social Security Disability Insurance are denied for reasons such as:

• omission of important information from the application
• incomplete or incorrect medical records
• failure to clearly present the disability case

It is, therefore, in an individual's best interest to seek assistance from a qualified professional who is experienced in the preparation and handling of Social Disability Insurance and Social Security Income claims and appeals.

The experienced Social Security lawyers of the Townsley Law Firm can help you navigate the bewildering maze of regulations and paperwork. Our staff will prepare and submit required documents, and will work with you to present a clear case in your initial claim or appeal.