Greenville Social Security Disability Lawyers

Attorneys Helping With the Social Security Disability Claims Process in Greenville, Texas

When you cannot work due to a serious medical condition, you may qualify for financial support through Social Security disability benefits. However, applying for disability benefits may seem like a difficult process, and you may be unsure about what forms and documents you will need to file. Without legal help from an experienced lawyer, you could face delays or denials due to errors in your application, insufficient documentation, or other issues. Understanding the steps involved in filing a disability claim and how the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews applications is crucial as you take steps to obtain these essential benefits.

At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, our attorneys help prepare and submit applications for disability benefits. We are ready to work with you to gather medical records and submit the correct forms, and if necessary, we can help you file an appeal to address the denial of a claim. With experienced legal representation, you can improve your chances of obtaining the benefits needed to maintain financial stability.

Steps for Filing a Social Security Disability Claim

Applying for Social Security disability benefits requires careful attention to detail, and you will also need to meet specific guidelines put in place by the SSA. The process generally involves the following steps:

1. Determining Eligibility: Before applying, our attorneys can discuss your case with you and confirm that you meet the SSA's criteria for a qualifying disability. We can review your case to make sure your medical condition has prevented you from working and supporting yourself and that it has affected you for the required amount of time (at least one year in most cases).
2. Gathering Medical and Work History Information: You will need to provide detailed information about your medical condition, treatment history, and employment history. We can help you compile all required documentation.
3. Completing the Application: There are several options for filing an application for SSDI or SSI benefits. We can help you complete and submit all required forms that provide information about your medical condition, past employment, and financial situation.
4. Submitting Medical Evidence: Supporting documentation from doctors, specialists, hospitals, and other medical providers is essential to proving the severity of your disability. This documentation may include test results, treatment records, and physician statements. We can help you prepare and submit this information during the application process.
5. Responding to SSA Requests: The SSA may request additional medical records, require you to receive examinations from government-appointed doctors, or send questionnaires to clarify your condition and limitations. We will work with you to answer any queries and meet all of the SSA's requirements.

How the SSA Reviews Disability Applications

Once an application is submitted, the SSA will follow a structured process to determine whether you qualify for disability benefits. The review process includes the following steps:

1. Is the Applicant Currently Working? The SSA will review the amount of income you currently earn to determine whether it is above a certain limit. If you earn more than this limit, you will not be eligible for disability benefits.
2. Does the Applicant Have a Severe Medical Impairment? The SSA will look at whether the information provided in your application shows that you have a condition that prevents you from maintaining employment.
3. Is the Condition Included in the SSA's Listing of Impairments? Certain conditions will automatically qualify as disabilities. If you have a listed condition that meets the criteria set down by the SSA, you will qualify for disability benefits at this step. If your condition is not listed, the following two steps will determine whether you qualify for disability benefits.
4. Can the Applicant Perform Past Relevant Work? The SSA will review your records to determine whether you have the capability to work in a job that you have held in the past.
5. Can the Applicant Adjust to Any Other Type of Work? If you cannot return to a job that you previously held, the SSA will look at whether you should be able to find work in other jobs that will fit within the physical or mental limitations of your condition. If you are unable to find gainful employment, you will qualify for disability benefits.

After following these steps, the SSA will issue a decision on whether your claim is approved or denied. If approved, you will receive a benefits award letter. If denied, you will have the right to appeal. Our attorneys can provide guidance on the steps you can follow to appeal a denial, and we will provide representation during each stage of the appeals process, fighting to make sure you will receive Social Security disability benefits.

Contact Our Greenville, TX Social Security Disability Application and Appeals Attorneys

If you need to apply for Social Security disability benefits, or if your claim has been denied, the team at The Law Offices of Coats & Todd is ready to provide you with legal assistance. Issues related to disability benefits can be overwhelming, but having an attorney on your side can ensure that your case will be handled correctly. To arrange a free consultation and get legal help with your disability claim, contact us at 972-671-9922.