Little Elm, Texas Social Security Disability Lawyers

Attorneys Helping People Obtain SSDI Benefits in Little Elm

While Social Security disability benefits may be necessary to provide you with financial assistance, the application process can be challenging, especially when you have a serious health condition that has affected your work and your daily life. The Law Offices of Coats & Todd provides compassionate legal assistance for residents of Little Elm, Texas who need to address concerns related to disability benefits. With our understanding of the requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and the issues that may arise during disability claims, we can help you obtain the benefits you need.

How Our Attorney Can Help Address Concerns Related to Disability Benefits

At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, we have in-depth legal knowledge of the issues that can affect disability claims, and we can help you build a strong case for disability benefits. Whether you are applying for benefits for the first time or appealing a denial, our attorneys will work with you to gather and submit the necessary medical and employment documentation, and we can represent you in hearings or appeals.

What Is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal program that provides financial assistance to people who are unable to work due to disabling medical conditions. These benefits are funded by Social Security taxes paid by workers, and eligibility for SSDI is based on a combination of medical and work history criteria.

Work Credit Requirements for SSDI

You earn work credits by earning an income and paying Social Security taxes. You will earn credits when you make a certain amount of income, and you can earn four credits each year. The number of credits needed to qualify for SSDI will depend on your age at the time of your disability:

• Before age 24: You may qualify with six credits earned within the three years preceding your disability.
• Ages 24 to 31: You may qualify if you have worked for at least half the time between age 21 and the onset of your disability.
• Age 31 and older: Generally, you will need 20 credits earned in the 10 years before your disability, and a total of 40 credits is usually required.

What Conditions Qualify as Disabilities?

Not all health issues are considered disabilities under Social Security guidelines. To qualify, a condition must meet the SSA's definition of a disability. This includes:

• Severity: Your physical or mental health condition must have prevented you from engaging in basic activities while working, such as standing, walking, or remembering tasks. These issues must have affected you for at least one year, or your condition must be terminal.
• Medical Listing of Impairments: The SSA has compiled a complete list of recognized medical and mental health conditions that are considered severe enough to prevent a person from working and qualify them for disability benefits. Even if a condition is not included in the listings, it may qualify as a disability if it is equally severe and limits your ability to maintain gainful employment.
• Inability to Work: The SSA will evaluate whether your condition has kept you from working in previous jobs you have held in the past or any other type of work that would allow you to earn sufficient income.

During the evaluation process, Social Security will review medical records, doctors' statements, and vocational assessments. Our attorneys will work with you to collect and present the necessary evidence to prove the severity of your condition.

Steps in the SSD Application Process

Applying for SSD benefits involves several stages. Understanding the best steps to take at each stage can be difficult without guidance from an experienced attorney. At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, we can provide the legal representation you need throughout the entire process. We can assist with steps including:

• Initial Application: We can help you complete and submit your application, including medical and work history documentation.
• Reconsideration: If the SSA denies your application, we will work with you to request a review and submit any required evidence to show that you meet the criteria for disability.
• Hearing: If your request for reconsideration is denied, we will help you request an administrative hearing, and we will work with you to present the necessary evidence and testimony.
• Appeals: If your claim is denied after the administrative hearing, you can file an appeal. We will work with you to present your case to the SSA's Appeals Council. If your claim is denied again at this level, we can file a lawsuit in federal court and argue on your behalf.

Contact Our Little Elm, TX Social Security Disability Benefits Attorneys

If you are struggling to obtain disability benefits, The Law Offices of Coats & Todd can provide you with experienced legal help and representation. You may be worried about the requirements you will need to meet to prove that you have a qualifying disability, but we will make sure you take the correct steps to address any concerns that may arise. Set up a free consultation by contacting us at 972-671-9922.