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Do You Need a Lawyer to Apply for SSI or SSDI Benefits?

September 15, 2024

Do You Need a Lawyer to Apply for SSI or SSDI Benefits?

Individuals who apply for SSI or SSDI often have limited resources and little income. Applying for benefits requires that you submit accurate and complete information, something that you want to get right the first time. If you are in the process of applying for SSI or SSDI, you should obtain a lawyer to increase your chances of being approved for government benefits.

If you are considering applying for SSI or SSDI benefits, please contact our Nashville Social Security disability attorneys.

What is SSI, and Who Qualifies?

Supplemental security income, or SSI, is offered to disabled individuals and older adults who have limited income. SSI eligibility depends upon several factors, including:

Income: Individuals who do not earn more than $1,971 monthly.

Limited Assets: Individuals with $2,000 or less in assets (vehicles, bank accounts, etc.) and couples with $3,000 or less in assets.

You are blind: Your visual acuity is 20/200 or worse in your better eye with a corrective lens, or the diameter of your horizontal visual field is less than 20 degrees in your better eye.

You are disabled or age 65 or older: If you are under age 65, your disability must affect your ability to work for a year or more and be terminal. For children under the age of 18, your disability must present severe functional limitations and be terminal, and your impairment must have lasted at least one year.

What is SSDI, and Who Qualifies?

Social security disability insurance (SSDI) is offered to persons who meet the following medical criteria:

You must have paid into social security in a previous job to qualify for benefits. Based on your work history, certain family members may also qualify for SSDI.

Why Hire a Disability Attorney to Apply for Government Benefits?

Even though roughly 2 million people apply for SSI and SSDI each year, between 67-71% of people are denied benefits. A claim denial can happen for various reasons, including if your disability does not qualify you for benefits, if your income is too high, if you are over the asset limit, or if you do not provide additional requested information. Hiring a disability attorney is essential when applying for benefits to avoid a denial. A Social Security disability lawyer can review your financial statements to determine if you meet the criteria.

If your claim is denied, you do have the option to have the Social Security Administration reconsider your claim, or you could file an appeal. You will want to discuss your situation with a Nashville Social Security disability lawyer before deciding.

Consult with a Nashville Social Security Disability Attorney

If you have been denied disability benefits or the government has requested you provide further information, the attorneys at Raybin & Weissman, P.C., can answer any questions you may have. We have helped hundreds of clients get the benefits that were due to them and are more than happy to assist you. To schedule your free, no-risk consultation, contact us online or by phone today.