You may want to hire a Social Security Disability (SSD) lawyer to represent you if your disability is severe enough. You also may want to consider legal help if you need to fast-track your application or find the disability application process overwhelming. You might also consider hiring a lawyer if you are appealing an application denial.
When you decide you should get a lawyer for a North Carolina Social Security Disability claim, our SSD law firm will work with you to complete the application process. Our team will compile information, review your application, and submit it for you. If your application is denied, we will also help you fight through the four stages of the appeals process.
The SSD Application Process
Preparing an application and attaching the requested documentation can be a daunting process. The steps in the process can include:
- Reviewing the SSA’s disability checklist
- Completing the application and medical release form
- Supplying personal and financial information
Our SSD attorney will explain each part of the application process. We will also do as much of the legwork as possible so that you can focus on your health.
The SSD Appeals Process
If the SSA denies your application for SSD disability benefits, you have four separate opportunities to appeal the unfavorable decision:
- Reconsideration: A review of your application by an impartial person who did not participate in your original request
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing: A review of the most recent denial by another new and impartial party
- Appeals Council review: A review of the ALJ’s denial, which will result in either a new decision or a repeat ALJ hearing
- Federal Court review: A civil lawsuit filed in federal district court
Our disability attorney will represent you at each appeals stage and help you keep fighting for your disability benefits.
Working with Our Team Has Benefits
Preparing and filing your SSD application can be a complex process. Our team can make this process easier to manage and navigate. SSA guidelines even offer support and direction for your representative. Accordingly, they recognize these benefits of working with an SSD lawyer:
- We can send and receive information on your behalf
- We can obtain your medical and financial records and other information
- We can attend meetings with you and prepare you for interviews
SSA representatives will inform us of the progress of your case and their final decision, and we will update you on all developments. Our team will also identify areas where your application can be fast-tracked and help you apply for the right program in the first place.
SSI Versus SSDI
Social Security Disability administers benefits through two distinct programs. Both programs have similar eligibility requirements regarding your disability and require much of the same information and evidence. Their primary difference is in the basic qualification requirements as follows:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are for individuals who worked long enough, recently enough, and paid Social Security taxes when employed.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits elderly, vision-impaired, and disabled individuals with proven financial needs.
Under certain circumstances, you may be eligible to receive benefits from both programs at the same time. We will help you apply for both and explain the resulting benefits if you are eligible for dual benefits.
Clients Share Reviews and Testimonials About Our Team
Reviews from previous clients can give you valuable insight into the way our team members support clients. You can view them on our testimonials page.
We treat you and your case with the same respect and integrity as each of these clients and fight hard for the benefits you deserve.
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Get Help with Your North Carolina Social Security Disability Claim
If you have a disability and are applying for Social Security Disability benefits, our SSD lawyer will help you prepare and submit your application. You can call one of our Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, team members at (828) 286-3866 today for a free consultation.