Auburn Social Security Disability Lawyer
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Auburn Social Security Disability Attorney
If you have a medical disability that prevents you from working, it can have a significant impact on your income, along with your ability to provide for yourself and your family. If this is your situation, Social Security disability benefits may be an option for you. An Auburn Social Security disability lawyer can guide you through this legal process and fight for the financial benefits you need.
What Is Social Security Disability Insurance?
Social Security Disability Insurance, also known as SSDI, is an American Social Security program. SSDI is available to disabled individuals who have been forced to stop working before reaching retirement age. Approved applicants for SSDI receive monthly cash benefits, as determined by their earnings record, similar to retirement benefits. However, SSDI allows you to collect your benefits early and not have your future retirement benefits reduced.
Disabled workers, widows, or their children may receive disability payments. Most are given to the workers. It was reported that, in December 2023, 523,834 workers were receiving benefits, making up 89% of disability payments. Benefits were discontinued for 788,327 people.
The Difference Between SSDI and SSI
SSDI is only available to disabled workers who have paid into Social Security through their payroll taxes. You must have the required number of work credits and a certain amount of work history. SSI pays benefits for the disabled and elderly who have little to no income and limited assets. The programs have different qualifying factors, but they each assist individuals who can’t work due to medical reasons.
Non-Medical Requirements
In addition to medical criteria, there are a number of non-medical eligibility requirements for SSDI. One requirement is that you have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain amount of time to earn “work credits.” The required number of credits is based on your age and the date you became disabled.
Additionally, according to Social Security disability laws, your condition must keep you from making more than the substantial gainful activity (SGA) amount. SGA in 2025 is $1,620.
Applicants must hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency status to qualify for benefits. There are exceptions to this rule for veterans, active-duty military, and some people who are lawfully present in the U.S.
Medical Requirements
Proving your medical eligibility is usually the most difficult aspect of a Social Security disability claim. The SSA will base its decision on the medical evidence presented, and it will use its own claims examiners and medical consultants to assess your claim.
Your disability must also last or be expected to last at least 12 months. It should also significantly hinder your ability to do basic work tasks. Social Security determines claims according to your work history, your medical records, and how your disability impacts your daily activities.
The Blue Book lists a variety of medical conditions that can automatically qualify a claim for approval. If your condition is not listed in the Blue Book, the SSA will determine your residual functional capacity, or ability to perform work in spite of your disability. Detailed documentation from your healthcare providers is key to proving medical eligibility.
Family Requirements
Social Security can also provide benefits for certain members of your family if they are eligible. Your spouse, children, or former spouse could receive benefits on your earnings record if they are at the right age, married or unmarried, or taking care of your child. These benefits can provide vital support for families who are having trouble making ends meet.
What If Your Claim Is Denied?
Many first-time SSDI applications are denied. However, if your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. Generally, you must request a hearing within 60 days of receiving your denial notice. By appearing before a judge and offering more evidence of your disability, you have a much better chance of being approved. An Auburn Social Security disability attorney can help you with the appeals process.
About Gade & Parekh, LLP
At Gade & Parekh, LLP, we are experienced in assisting Northern California residents in obtaining the Social Security disability benefits they deserve. We provide individualized attention to all our clients, guiding them through every stage of the SSDI and SSI claims process, along with the hearings held in the Placer County Courthouse. We understand Social Security disability cases, so we know how to get you the benefits you deserve.
FAQs
Q: What Are Signs You Will Be Approved for Disability?
A: You are more likely to be approved if you have complete medical records that show a severe, long-term illness or impairment that stops you from working. Your claim gains credibility through consistent treatment records, objective medical tests, and doctors’ statements, all of which can explain your limitations.
A consistent work history, following the recommended treatment, and qualifying under Social Security’s medical listings also make it more likely you will be approved.
Q: When Should I Talk to a Disability Lawyer?
A: Speak with a disability lawyer as soon as you begin thinking about applying for SSDI or SSI, particularly if:
- You have a complicated case.
- Your medical condition is likely to be challenged.
- You have been denied benefits in the past.
An attorney can help you gather evidence, fill out forms correctly, and increase your chances of getting approved. They can also guide you through any appeals and hearings if you are initially denied.
Q: What Is the Fastest You Can Get Approved for Disability?
A: The quickest approvals happen when your medical condition is one of Social Security’s “Compassionate Allowance” listings, like ALS or some cancers, where it may take a few weeks or months. Standard SSDI or SSI applications usually take multiple months to over a year to process because of the necessary steps involved, including claims evaluation, record collection, and possible appeals.
Q: What Is the 55 Rule for Disability?
A: The “55 rule” is a term for Social Security’s rules for older applicants. If you are disabled at age 55 or older, SSA may consider your age, in addition to your medical condition and work history, when determining whether you are disabled. Thresholds for proving an inability to adjust to other work are lower for older workers, so it is somewhat easier for them to qualify as a disabled worker than a younger applicant.
Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer
If you have a disability and are considering applying for benefits, hire a Social Security disability lawyer right away. Gade & Parekh, LLP, can guide you through the SSDI process. Contact us today for a consultation.