Rockwall, TX Social Security Disability Lawyers

Attorneys for Social Security Disability Benefits in Rockwall

Living with a disabling condition can be challenging, particularly when it impacts your ability to earn an income. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides critical financial assistance to people whose physical or mental impairments prevent them from working. However, obtaining these benefits often involves a complex and time-consuming process. The Law Offices of Coats & Todd offers professional legal representation in Social Security disability cases in Rockwall, Texas, assisting clients in understanding their eligibility, navigating the application process, and addressing potential denials of claims.

Applying for SSDI benefits requires a clear demonstration of how a medical condition limits your ability to perform substantial work. Our lawyers can help you put together a comprehensive application. We will help you gather the necessary medical and vocational evidence and identify and address potential challenges. When you work with us, you will gain an advocate who is committed to ensuring that your case is presented effectively to the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Conditions That May Qualify for Disability Benefits

Disabling conditions can take many forms, and SSDI eligibility is based on the extent to which the condition interferes with your ability to work and manage other daily tasks. To qualify, the condition must be severe, it must be expected to last at least 12 months, and it must prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). Examples of qualifying conditions include:

• Musculoskeletal Disorders: Back injuries, arthritis, or other conditions that limit your ability to sit, stand, or lift for extended periods.
• Neurological Disorders: Seizure disorders, multiple sclerosis, or other impairments that may affect coordination, mobility, or cognitive functions.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Heart disease or chronic heart failure that causes fatigue or shortness of breath.
• Chronic Pain or Fatigue Syndromes: Conditions like fibromyalgia that interfere with concentration and physical stamina.

These are just a few of the many health concerns that could allow you to qualify for disability benefits. Others include hearing loss, vision impairment, cerebral palsy, cancer, or certain types of serious mental illnesses. The Law Offices of Coats & Todd will work with you to document the ways your condition has affected your daily life and job performance, using medical records, functional assessments, and expert opinions to build a strong case for benefits.

The Process of Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

Successfully obtaining SSDI benefits requires navigating several procedural steps while following federal guidelines. The process includes:

• Initial Application: You will submit detailed personal, medical, and work history information, including supporting evidence from healthcare providers and vocational experts.
• Evaluation of Medical Evidence: The SSA reviews submitted medical records to determine whether your condition meets the eligibility criteria in its Listing of Impairments.
• Vocational Assessment: If the condition does not meet the listed criteria, the SSA will consider your ability to perform past or alternative work.
• Decision: A decision will be issued based on the evidence provided. This can take several months, and many applications are denied at this stage.

The Law Offices of Coats & Todd will assist you during this process by ensuring that your application is accurate, complete, and supported by the necessary documentation. This approach minimizes the likelihood of errors or omissions that could result in denial.

Common Pitfalls That Could Lead to a Denial of Your Claim

Even if you meet the eligibility criteria for SSDI, your claim may still be denied for various reasons. Common pitfalls include:

• Insufficient Medical Evidence: Failure to provide detailed and up-to-date medical records that demonstrate the severity of your condition.
• Lack of Consistency: Conflicting information between medical reports and your descriptions of your limitations.
• Missed Deadlines: Failure to meet deadlines for submitting evidence or responding to SSA requests.
• Procedural Errors: Incorrect or incomplete information on the application.

Our attorneys can help you avoid these pitfalls by carefully reviewing all documentation, communicating with healthcare providers, and managing deadlines to ensure that every aspect of your claim is handled professionally.

Assistance With Denied Claims

If your claim is denied, you may be able to appeal the decision. Our lawyers will provide you with representation throughout the appeals process, which may include:

• Request for Reconsideration: We can help you submit a formal request for the SSA to reevaluate the initial decision.
• Administrative Hearings: We will advocate for your interests before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), presenting additional evidence and arguments and making sure you and your loved one can testify as to how your condition has affected your life.
• Further Appeals: We can address unfavorable decisions by filing requests with Social Security's Appeals Council, or we can work with you to pursue a federal appeal if necessary.

Contact Our Rockwall, Texas Social Security Disability Benefits Attorneys

When you cannot work because of a serious medical or mental health condition, Social Security disability benefits can provide critical support. The Law Offices of Coats & Todd offers skilled legal assistance to help you navigate the application process, address potential pitfalls, and pursue appeals if your claim has been denied. Contact our firm at 972-671-9922 to arrange your free consultation today.