Prosper Social Security Disability Lawyer

Dedicated Social Security Disability Benefits Attorneys in Prosper, TX

The benefits provided to Americans by the Social Security Administration (SSA) can serve as a crucial lifeline for those who are unable to work due to disabling conditions. However, there are many pitfalls and setbacks that people may encounter when filing disability claims. An attorney who has experience assisting with Social Security disability applications and appeals can provide invaluable guidance during this process and help ensure that a person demonstrates their eligibility for benefits. At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, we help people in Prosper, Texas address legal issues that may affect their disability claims, and do everything we can to ensure that our clients will receive the proper financial assistance.

Purpose of Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security disability benefits are designed to help people who have serious injuries, physical impairments, mental health conditions, or chronic illnesses that prevent them from maintaining gainful employment. By providing essential financial support, Social Security disability benefits can help cover living expenses, medical costs, and other necessary expenditures.

To qualify for disability benefits, a person will need to meet certain criteria, including demonstrating that they suffer from a "total disability." A condition must impose physical or mental limitations on a person that prevent them from being able to work consistently and earn enough to meet their needs. A person will only be able to qualify for benefits if their condition has affected them for at least one year, if a diagnosis shows that their condition will continue to affect them for 12 months or more, or if an illness is expected to lead to death in the future.

Types of Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security provides two types of benefits for people with disabilities:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): This federal insurance program is funded by payroll taxes. To qualify for SSDI, applicants must have a sufficient work history during which they paid Social Security taxes. A person who qualifies for SSDI will receive monthly benefits based on the income they have earned during their career.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): This needs-based program is designed to provide financial assistance to people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history. Instead, it is based on financial need. The monthly benefit amount a person can receive will be determined by the SSA, and to be eligible, a person must have limited assets and other financial resources.

Reasons for Social Security Disability Application Denials

The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies a significant number of initial disability claims. Understanding the common reasons for denial can help applicants prepare stronger applications or determine their options for filing appeals. Some frequent reasons for denial include:

• Insufficient medical evidence: One of the primary reasons for denial is a lack of adequate medical documentation to demonstrate that a person meets the criteria to be considered disabled. The SSA requires comprehensive medical records that demonstrate the severity of the condition and its impact on the applicant's ability to work.
• Failure to follow prescribed treatment: Applicants may be denied if they do not follow the treatment prescribed by their healthcare providers without a valid reason. The SSA expects that people will pursue recommended treatments to improve their conditions unless there is a justifiable reason for not doing so.
• Income and resource limits: A person's disability claim may be denied if they are currently working and earning income above the level that the SSA considers to be "substantial gainful activity." SSI applicants may not be able to receive benefits if they own a certain amount of money or property. Even small amounts of additional income or assets can affect a person's eligibility.
• Lack of sufficient work credits: SSDI applicants may be denied benefits if they have a limited work history. In general, a person must have worked for at least 10 years of full-time employment, although this limit may be lower for people who are younger and earlier in their careers.

Contact Our Prosper, TX Social Security Disability Claim Attorneys

At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, our lawyers have a deep understanding of the Social Security system, and we are committed to fighting for our clients' rights and interests. We provide experienced legal support for those who are navigating the challenging process of applying for Social Security disability benefits. To learn more about how we can help you receive financial assistance, contact us at 972-671-9922 and arrange a free consultation.