La Riviera Social Security Disability Lawyer
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Please note: We only handle disability claims and do not handle retirement issues
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La Riviera Social Security Disability Attorney
When you’re experiencing an injury or illness that prevents you from working, it can be incredibly stressful to coordinate proper medical care while worrying about lost wages. Programs exist to help cover these expenses, but it can be difficult to get approved without the help of a La Riviera Social Security disability lawyer. A defense attorney can help if this is your first application or if you need to appeal a denied application.
Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer
It can be difficult to decide if you should hire a Social Security disability lawyer when you are already overwhelmed. At Gade & Parekh, LLP, we understand this is a challenging time for you and your family. Our team has over four decades of experience pursuing disability benefits for our clients. Social Security disability cases can be complicated. Our team can guide you through the process. We are dedicated to getting you results.
Social Security Benefits in the United States
- 67,691,000 received only Social Security
- 4,848,000 received only Supplemental Security Income
- 2,521,000 received both
- 84,072 were under 18
- 440,145 were between 18 and 64
- 589,962 were 65 or older
Types of Social Security Disability in California
When you are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, there are several programs available in California that can help cover your expenses and medical costs while you are unable to work. These programs include:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI provides benefits to people with disabilities who meet minimum work requirements and have paid Social Security taxes. The benefit amount provided is determined by the amount paid into the program. The benefit amount can be reduced if other benefits are also being used. Benefits are paid starting six months from when the disability began. SSDI recipients also qualify for Medicare.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a needs-based program that provides benefits to people with limited income and resources, without a previous work requirement. The amount received is generally lower than SSDI benefits and can be reduced if the recipient has other countable income. SSI recipients may qualify for Medicare.
- California State Disability Insurance (SDI). SDI is a state program that furnishes short-term disability insurance and paid family leave to eligible people who are not able to work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, pregnancy, or childbirth. Eligibility is based on receiving medical care within a few days of the first signs of the disability and paying a minimum amount of SDI taxes. SDI benefits are only available for a maximum of 52 weeks.
SSDI and SSI claims can also provide benefits to eligible family members of the person who is disabled. Current and former spouses, minor children, and disabled adult children can qualify for reduced benefits.
FAQs
Q: How Much Does a Disability Lawyer Cost in California?
A: There is generally no upfront cost to hire a Social Security disability lawyer in California. Many disability lawyers charge based on a contingency fee. A contingency fee is paid only if the case is successful. Social Security disability fees are capped at the lower of 25% of your awarded back pay or $9,200, as of November 2024. The court reviews the fee agreement for fairness and compliance with the statute.
Q: What Are the Odds of Winning a Social Security Disability Hearing?
A: Social Security disability hearings have higher approval ratings than initial application decisions, but there is still a chance of being denied. Some factors are controllable, such as having experienced representation and clear documentation of your disability. Other factors are less predictable, such as the judge who hears your case. If your claim is denied, you have the opportunity to present new evidence during an appeal.
Q: What Not to Say When Applying for Social Security Disability?
A: When applying for Social Security disability, you should be honest, but there are some things you should avoid saying. Never minimize your symptoms or claim you are fine. You should also avoid exaggerating your symptoms. Don’t make statements that contradict your doctor’s findings or ones that suggest you haven’t been following your treatment plan. Answer questions honestly, but don’t elaborate or get off topic.
Q: How Do I Qualify for SSDI Benefits in California?
A: To qualify for SSDI benefits in California, you have to meet specific work requirements and have paid into Social Security taxes. The Social Security Administration handles SSDI benefits, and they can determine if you have met the minimum requirements to qualify for benefits. A Social Security disability attorney can also help you determine if you qualify.
Q: Is There a Method to Expedite My Social Security Disability Claim?
A: There are several ways to expedite a Social Security disability claim if you meet specific conditions. If you have an immediate need that could result in an eviction, foreclosure, or denial of medical care, you can apply for dire need processing.
Some programs can expedite processing in specific cases. There are compassionate allowances if you are severely ill, quick disability determinations for highly likely to be approved cases, and terminal illness processes when applicable.
Contact Gade & Parekh, LLP
When you’re recovering from an illness or injury that has left you unable to work, you need to be able to focus on your own recovery without the added stress of lost wages and medical bills. A La Riviera Social Security disability attorney can help you file for benefits or help you appeal if your case has been denied. Contact Gade & Parekh, LLP, today to schedule your initial consultation.