Social Security
Atlanta, Georgia Social Security Disability Lawyers
Sometimes an accident or illness does more than just keep you down temporarily. Some injuries can leave you permanently disabled and unable to work, where you no longer have the means to support yourself or your family. If you have been working for five out of the last ten years, then you are probably entitled to receive Social Security Disability payments to help compensate you for the loss of your earnings. (There is also a program available to persons who do not have an established work history called Supplementary Security Income (SSI).)
However, Social Security Disability benefits are notoriously difficult to obtain, and one-half to two-thirds of all first applications are typically denied. The legal team at Katz Personal Injury Lawyers consists of experienced Social Security Disability lawyers who understand what it takes to obtain necessary government benefits.
Meeting Social Security’s Strict Definition of Disability
In order to qualify for social security disability payments (a.k.a. SSDI), you must demonstrate that you are unable to perform substantial gainful activity as a result of a severe impairment which is expected to last for at least 12 months or end in death. This includes being unable to do the work you did before as well as work at another job. The Social Security Administration (SSA) interprets this definition very strictly. Basically, the government would rather have you working than pay you not to work. Before applying for Social Security Disability benefits, it is wise to consult with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney who can help you determine if you qualify and assist you in preparing and submitting an accurate, complete, well-documented, and persuasive application.
Please note that it is possible to receive benefits even if you have also applied for workers’ compensation benefits or if you have filed a personal injury lawsuit. At Katz Personal Injury Lawyers, we provide comprehensive representation that covers of all your different claims and ensures you receive the maximum compensation that you are entitled to.
A Denial of Your Social Security Disability Application is not the End of the Road
Many people simply give up when their application is denied, either because they don’t know they have other options or because they have become exhausted with the process and don’t feel there is any point in fighting the system. Our lawyers understand the system and are not intimidated by the giant government bureaucracy. We know how to work within the system and make sure your application gets a fair hearing. Our lawyers may take any of the following steps to make sure your application is ultimately successful:
- Request for Reconsideration before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) with the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR)
- Appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council
- File a lawsuit in Federal District Court
- Appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals
We prepare you to testify before the ODAR ALJ, and we work with your doctors to make sure we have all the information and documentation necessary to present a solid, persuasive case. Our Social Security Disability attorneys are here to get you your benefits as soon as possible so you can pay necessary living expenses and avoid the stress associated with a lack of regular paycheck.
Call Today for Immediate Assistance with Your Social Security Disability Claim
If you have been injured and cannot work, or if your application for Social Security Disability benefits has been denied, call attorney our disability lawyers today at (404) 460-0101 for your free consultation. We represent clients across the state of Georgia, including those residing in Atlanta, Decatur, Roswell, and Marietta.