Disability Lawyers in Morristown, TN
When you have a disability that leaves you unable to work, it can turn everyday life into a struggle. When you can’t earn a steady income, you may be unable to pay bills and seek medical treatment. Fortunately, for many people, Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits provide a much-needed lifeline.
Even with a legitimate disability diagnosis, though, getting the Social Security Administration (SSA) to approve your claim for disability benefits can be difficult. The application process is tedious, and only about 30% of initial applications are approved.
Having the support of an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Miller Disability Law, P.C., we know what the SSA looks for during claim reviews. We also know how to present your claim in the most effective way possible and successfully appeal denied cases.
If you’re struggling to apply for Social Security Disability, contact us to schedule a free consultation. Our Social Security attorneys in Morristown, Tennessee, are here to fight for your right to financial support.
Morristown Social Security Disability Benefits: How To Get Approved
Getting approved for SSD benefits involves many crucial steps. Your application will need to contain sufficient evidence proving you are unable to work due to your disability.
Because there are various detailed and specific requirements for different conditions, supplying the proper documentation can be tricky. Having a Social Security Disability attorney to help gather the right evidence greatly increases your chances for approval.
Our law firm has extensive experience with navigating the Social Security system. We’re familiar with the filing process, guidelines, obtaining the documentation needed to support different claims, and the SSA’s strict eligibility criteria.
Who Qualifies for Social Security Disability?
To get Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s qualifying criteria:
- First, your condition must be serious enough to keep you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
- Second, your condition must be expected to prevent you from working for at least 12 months (or result in death).
- Third, the SSA will look at whether your condition is a qualifying impairment. The SSA keeps a catalog of medical conditions, called the Blue Book, that are considered serious enough to potentially prevent someone from working.
If your condition isn’t in the SSA’s Blue Book, they’ll look at how severely it impacts your daily activities. If it’s not “equal” in severity to any listed condition, they’ll look at whether you’re able to perform any kind of work. If you can’t do the work you did previously and cannot be expected to adjust to any new type of work, you will be approved for disability.
SSDI vs SSI Qualifying Criteria
You must have worked long enough and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI is only for disabled workers with Social Security credits.
For SSI (Supplemental Security Income), your income and assets must be below certain limits. SSI is for people who are disabled, blind, or aged (65 and older) who have extremely limited resources.
A skilled disability lawyer in Morristown, TN, can help you understand if you meet the SSA’s qualifications. Contact us now, and we’ll help you gather the right evidence and paperwork for your claim!
How Long Does It Take To Get SSD Benefits?
Getting approved for Social Security Disability benefits takes time. Some people get approved in as little as 3-5 months. Many others wait much longer, especially if their initial application is denied and they have to go through the appeals process.
In Tennessee, it’s common for a full approval process (including appeals) to take 12-24 months. That’s why it helps to have a knowledgeable disability attorney on your side. A lawyer can make sure your application is completed properly, gather and submit medical records, and stand by you during hearings.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed filing a claim, a local Social Security lawyer in Morristown can help guide you. Contact our law firm today to speak with one of our highly skilled attorneys.
When Will You Start Getting Benefits After Claim Approval?
If you’re approved for SSDI, there’s a 5-month waiting period before you can receive payment. This period goes into effect after the date your disability began. For example, if the SSA agrees your disability started in mid-January, your payments won’t start until July. However, many people don’t get approved right away, so SSDI back pay is often included.
For SSI, there’s no 5-month waiting period. Benefits begin the first full month after your claim is approved. You may be entitled to back payments, as well, for the time between your filing date and approval date.
One of our trusted Morristown, TN, disability lawyers can explain your benefits timeline based on your unique situation.
Disability Claim Appeals
If your disability application was denied, you’re not alone— and you’re not out of options. Many people are denied the first time they apply. The good news is that you have the right to appeal, and our experienced disability attorneys in Morristown, TN, are here to help you every step of the way.
Appealing a denial gives you the chance to fix errors, add missing medical records, and better explain how your condition affects your ability to work. The appeals process can be stressful, but working with a disability lawyer can make all the difference.
Some people try to handle appeals on their own because they’re worried about the cost of hiring a lawyer. At Miller Disability Law, P.C., you only pay if we win your case. We also offer free case evaluations, so you can get answers before making any decisions.
Let one of our trusted Tennessee disability attorneys fight for the benefits you deserve. Contact us today!
Contact Our Social Security Disability Law Firm
SSDI and SSI are legal benefits that exist to help disabled individuals and improve their quality of life. It’s a complex system, however, and without the help of an experienced disability lawyer, it’s easy to feel confused, lost, and even hopeless.
No one should have to go through the claims process alone when professional help is available. Our disability law office is here to help you with your initial application or case appeal.
Our Social Security Disability attorneys guide clients through the whole process. This includes filling out forms, gathering medical evidence, and preparing for administrative hearings. We will answer all your questions and keep you in the loop from beginning to end.
We are only a phone call away, always here to provide answers and support. Call today for your free consultation. With years of experience, you can trust our attorneys to fight for your rights with compassion and dedication.