Will My Social Security Lawyer Take Care of Everything for My Claim?
View PDF | Print View
by: albert.tobega
Total views: 17
Word Count: 470
Q: What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?
A: Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income are both disability benefits, but they are not the same. SSDI is awarded based on prior work contributions and earned credits. To determine eligibility for SSDI, Social Security will look at the earnings history, time in workforce and earned credits of an individual. While in the workforce, an individual earns one work credit for every calendar quarter. You are usually eligible for SSDI if you have earned 20 credits out of the past 40 quarters. Eligibility for SSI benefits, however, are dependent upon the financial needs of an individual. SSI is not dependent upon prior work contributions and credit. To be eligible for SSI, an individual cannot earn more than $1,433 per month in wages ($694 per month if the income is not from wages). All assets and earnings affect eligibility for SSI. If you have any questions about whether you qualify for SSI or SSDI, contact a social security lawyer.
Q: Do you need a social security lawyer if you plan to appeal your Social Security disability claim?
A: A social security lawyer is not required for you to file an appeal. That being said, if your case was denied after the initial review, it would be wise to seek the counsel of a social security lawyer. The first step after an application is denied is to have the case reconsidered. Most cases that have been reconsidered are not approved. The next step after reconsideration is to request a hearing for your case. A social security lawyer is extremely beneficial when a claim goes through a hearing. The likelihood that your claim will be denied decreases with an advocate like a lawyer on your side. A social security lawyer will also know how to properly file paperwork within deadlines and assure that your case is adjudicated properly. Should your claim win approval, an attorney can also assure that you get the most favorable onset date.
Q: Do I let my lawyer complete and submit all forms for social security disability benefits?
A: If you have hired the services of a social security lawyer, he will assure that your paperwork has been filed correctly and within the required deadlines. Knowing that, it is also important for you to be in the loop about all forms and deadlines. This is your case, after all, and you should be involved. Your lawyer will assist you, but there are some things that should be completed by you. The application for disability benefits and anything that involves your employment history, for example, can be filled out by you.
About the Author
Research on social security disability, visit HillandPonton.com.
Rating: Not yet rated