Social Security Disability Lawyer by Kingsport, TN
Are you unable to work because of a disabling health condition? Our disability lawyers by Kingsport, TN, can help you get the benefits you deserve. At Miller Disability Law, P.C., we focus on helping people in Kingsport and throughout East Tennessee navigate Social Security Disability.
How a Social Security Attorney by Kingsport, TN, Can Help You
Getting disability benefits isn’t easy. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies many initial claims. Usually, this is due to minor errors, lack of medical evidence, and strict eligibility requirements. When you work with a Social Security Disability attorney, you avoid common mistakes that can lead to denials and delays.
As experienced disability lawyers, we know what it takes to build a strong case for benefits at Miller Disability Law. Our team handles all the complex paperwork and deadlines for you. We gather medical evidence that clearly shows how your condition limits your ability to work. We also prepare you for any questions or hearings that might come up during your case.
Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits
The Social Security Administration has two main benefit programs for people with disabilities, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
- SSDI is for disabled workers. Those who have worked and contributed to Social Security, thereby earning work credits, are entitled to benefits if they become unable to work due to a medical condition. The amount they receive depends on their work history and earnings. They must also have enough Social Security work credits to qualify.
- SSI helps people with limited income and resources. You don’t need a work history to qualify for SSI, but you must meet strict financial limits. SSI is only for disabled, blind, or aged (65 or older) individuals.
Our SSDI and SSI disability lawyers by Kingsport can help you understand which program fits your situation. We explain the application process in clear, simple terms so you know what to expect.
What You Need To Qualify for Disability Benefits
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet several requirements:
- Your medical condition must be severe and limit your ability to work. It must prevent you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
- Your condition must last or be expected to last at least 12 months or be expected to result in death.
The Social Security Administration also has a list of medical impairments that qualify for disability benefits. You must satisfy a listing’s medical criteria to file for benefits under that specific disability. However, if your condition isn’t on the list, you can still qualify if you can prove it is as severe as a listed impairment.
In some cases, claimants who do not meet or equal a listing can apply for a Medical-Vocational Allowance. A Medical-Vocational Allowance ensures those who cannot work due to a disability or combination of disabilities receive benefits even if they don’t meet all pre-determined medical eligibility requirements.
When applying, the SSA will consider factors like your age, education, prior work experience, and transferable skills. They will also test your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC), or what you can still do despite your condition.
As a disability law firm for Kingsport, TN, residents, we can help determine if your condition meets the necessary requirements. We know what evidence you need to prove your case and how to present it effectively to the SSA.
The Disability Application Process
Applying for disability benefits involves several steps. First, you need to fill out detailed forms about your work history and medical condition(s). This includes gathering and supplying crucial medical evidence. Then, the SSA’s Disability Determination Services reviews your claim.
Appeals Process
Many people do not receive benefits after they submit their first application. The SSA denies most initial claims, but if this happens to you, don’t give up hope. The appeals process can lead to approval, especially with help from our Tennessee disability lawyers.
There are four levels of appeal, including:
- Reconsideration Request: Another examiner reviews your claim
- Hearing: You meet with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Appeals Council Review: The council reviews the judge’s decision
- Federal Court: You file a civil action with the closest U.S. District Court
At Miller Disability Law, P.C., we handle cases at every stage of this process. Our Social Security attorneys by Kingsport, TN, have experience with appeals at all levels.
When Can You Expect To Receive Benefits?
If your application is approved, when you’ll receive benefits depends on several factors:
- For SSDI, there’s a 5-month waiting period. You’ll receive your first payment in the sixth month after your disability onset date.
- For SSI, benefits can start as soon as you’re approved.
Back pay may be available, as well. For SSDI benefits, you can get back pay for up to 12 months before your application date if you were disabled during that time. You may also receive back pay for the time between your application date and approval date (minus the 5-month waiting period). For SSI, you can only receive back pay for the time between your application date and claim approval.
Your first payment might take a few weeks to process after approval. Our Social Security Disability lawyers by Kingsport can help you understand exactly when to expect your benefits.
Why Hire a Disability Lawyer?
The disability benefits system is complex and confusing. Small mistakes on forms or missing medical records can easily lead to denials. Our Social Security lawyers understand disability law in Kingsport, TN, and know what evidence you need and how to present it to the SSA.
We work directly with your doctors to get detailed medical reports. These reports should clearly explain how your condition limits your ability to work. We know the specific medical information the SSA looks for when reviewing claims for all types of impairments.
If you’ve been denied benefits and need to appeal, having a disability lawyer by your side makes a big difference. We review your claim to find any errors or discrepancies that may have led to your denial. If you need to attend an ALJ hearing, we prepare you for questions and help you explain your limitations clearly. We will question medical and vocational experts who might testify at your hearing, as well.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Are you unsure whether or not you qualify for benefits and want to know more about the application process? Book a free consultation at Miller Disability Law, P.C. Our disability lawyers will take the time to understand your situation and explain how we can help.
Our team understands the challenges that people with disabilities face. We’re committed to helping our neighbors get the benefits they need to maintain financial stability. Let our experienced lawyers fight for you. The sooner you call, the sooner we can start working on your claim.
We handle every case with care and commitment, fighting for the benefits you need to live a healthier life. Contact us now to schedule a free case evaluation!
