Get Disability Benefits With Help From Our Attorneys
When you’re unable to work due to a long-term illness or injury, it’s important to know the government can help. You may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). These two programs provide financial assistance to disabled individuals who are unable to work.
If you need a Social Security attorney in Kingsport, TN, Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, is here to help. We understand how difficult it can be to file a disability claim with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and achieve a successful outcome.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation. We’ll help you get the Social Security Disability benefits you deserve.
Why Work With Our Experienced Disability Lawyers in Kingsport, TN?
When you’re facing the challenges of applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits in Kingsport, you don’t have to go through the process alone. Filing for SSD is a long and difficult path. Proper documentation must be gathered, including medical records and other evidence to support your case.
The Social Security Administration maintains strict guidelines to prevent fraudulent claims. This means many qualifying individuals are denied benefits due to filing mistakes or a lack of evidence.
Having an experienced Social Security lawyer on your side can improve your chances of a successful outcome. Our disability lawyers in Kingsport, TN, understand every step of the claims process. We provide:
- Guidance on what medical evidence you need to strengthen your case
- Help with completing paperwork and responding to SSA requests
- Support with disability appeals if your claim has already been denied
- Preparation for and representation at hearings before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
When you work with our lawyers, we’ll gather all the necessary documentation. We’ll ensure your application is filed properly and all deadlines are met.
Additionally, we understand the local SSA offices, judges, and procedures in Tennessee. That knowledge allows us to prepare your claim effectively. If you need a trusted disability lawyer in Kingsport, we are here to guide you.
Applying for Benefits: SSI vs SSDI
Who Qualifies for SSI?
Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is a disability program funded by the United States Treasury. It provides financial support to blind, aged, and disabled people with limited income and resources. SSI benefits are awarded to those who have a limited work history.
Who Qualifies for SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people who can’t work because of a medical disability. SSDI is funded by payroll taxes.
Claimants must have a substantial work history to qualify for SSDI. This means they have paid into the Social Security system. They must also have worked long enough and recently enough to have earned sufficient work credits.
Eligibility Based On Social Security Credits
Social Security credits are measured based on how recently and long you have worked. SSDI claimants must meet a recent work test and a duration work test before receiving benefits.
The number of work credits you need to qualify for SSDI is based on your age. For example, in most cases, claimants aged 31 or older need to have earned at least 20 credits in the 10 years before they became disabled.
How To Know If You Qualify for Disability in Kingsport, TN
An attorney experienced in Social Security Disability law in Kingsport, TN, can help determine whether you qualify for benefits. If you’re disabled and unable to perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), it’s important to file a claim as quickly as possible.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits in Kingsport
Determining eligibility for disability benefits involves assessing your impairment level. A claimant must have a medically diagnosable condition that prevents them from earning a living wage. Relevant and substantial medical evidence is required to support this claim. This may include treatment records, test and lab results, physicians’ notes, and other medical documentation.
A claimant’s condition must also satisfy the following criteria to meet the SSA’s definition of disability:
- Your disability must prevent you from performing SGA.
- Your disability must have lasted or be expected to last at least 12 months, or result in death.
- Your disability must prevent you from doing any type of work you previously performed and any new type of work (for SSDI claimants).
- Your disability must be a qualifying impairment that is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book. Or, it must equal a listed impairment in severity.
If your condition does not meet medical criteria in the Blue Book and you’re still unable to work, you may qualify for a Medical-Vocational Allowance.
If you’re struggling to apply for disability benefits, contact our qualified disability attorneys in Kingsport, TN. Our team helps clients gather the right records, communicate with doctors, and present a clear case that demonstrates why you cannot work.
When Will You Receive Disability Benefits?
Several factors are considered when deciding when an SSI or SSDI beneficiary will start getting benefits.
For SSDI, benefits start after a 5-month waiting period from the onset date of the disability. This onset date is determined by the SSA and is based on the provided medical records.
For SSI, there is no waiting period. Benefits may start in the month following the application date. In both SSI and SSDI cases, the actual start date of benefits can be influenced by how long it takes to process your application.
Contact a Kingsport, TN, Disability Lawyer Today
If you’re applying for Social Security Disability benefits in Kingsport or appealing a denial, don’t wait to get legal help. The sooner you have representation, the stronger your case will be.
Contact Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, today to schedule a free consultation with a qualified disability lawyer in Tennessee. We’ll answer your questions, review your situation, and help you take legal action to secure the benefits you deserve. With over 100 years of combined experience, you can depend on our law firm.
