Baltimore Social Security Disability Lawyers
If you have a severe and permanent physical or mental condition that prevents you from working and you are under the age of retirement, it may be in your best interest to apply for Social Security disability insurance benefits. Unfortunately, obtaining benefits is neither quick nor easy and mistakes are common. For this reason, it is highly advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced and reputable Maryland Social Security disability lawyer if your application is denied. At LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton, our disability lawyers will guide you through every step of the appeal process to ensure that mistakes made by the Social Security Administration during the processing of your application are corrected.
Applying For Benefits
While the process of obtaining benefits can be quite complex and lengthy, applying for Social Security disability benefits is quick and easy. You can apply by visiting Social Security’s website here and clicking on the “Benefits” tab. You may also apply for benefits by calling 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office or to schedule a telephone application session.
Do not delay, as a delay in applying can result in lost benefits. It is important to note that SSI benefits are not awarded retroactive to the application and SSDI benefits are only awarded up to 1 year retroactive of the application. Therefore, if you are eligible for benefits but wait until you have been out of work for 18 months, you have lost six months of benefits.
Keep in mind you need to be prepared. Before applying for Social Security disability benefits prepare a list of the serious medical conditions that you suffer from, compile a list of the medications you take for these conditions and create a list of the doctors that are familiar with these conditions including their names, the name of their practice, the address of their main office and their telephone number. You do not need to provide medical records as the government should attempt to obtain the records from the providers. You do not need a copy of your last tax return or W2, but you do want to prepare a work history summary for the past 15 years. Download the Work History Report by clicking below.
Social Security Work History Report
Application Process
Social Security disability claims can take up to six months to process, so it is best to apply as early as possible after becoming disabled. A complete application should include:
- Social Security number and proof of age for you and your dependents
- Name and contact information for doctors, caseworkers, hospitals and clinics that provided you with care (include dates and types of treatment whenever possible)
- A summary of your work history
Your initial application will be sent to the Maryland Disability Determination Services agency for review. One of their agents will contact your during this review. Provide them with your work history report, with information regarding your medical treatment and go to any medical appointments they schedule for you. Unfortunately, statistically, there is a high likelihood that your claim will be denied. Nationwide, roughly 70% of disability claims are turned down at the initial application stage. Should you receive a denial, contact a Maryland Social Security disability lawyer at LeViness Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible.
Eligibility Requirements
Disability defined –The Social Security Administration defines disability as a physical or mental condition that is expected to last 12 months or more. You should be able to provide a full listing of all of your impairments, conditions and symptoms, as well as medical records from all those involved in your care.
Earnings requirement – In order to be eligible for SSDI, you must have insured status for Social Security. This means that you must have worked enough in the years before filing to have contributed a sufficient amount to the Social Security system. Those who have not worked enough or recently enough to qualify for SSDI may still be eligible for disability benefits under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.
Total disability – SSDI is only available to those who are totally disabled. No benefits are payable for partial disability or for short-term disability. The SSA will review your information and supporting documents to determine if your medical condition is severe enough to limit your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity. For example, if your condition prevents you from performing the work you used to do and you cannot adjust to other work, you should qualify as totally disabled.
How An Experienced Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help You Get Benefits
Obtaining disability benefits can be a lengthy, tedious and stressful ordeal. At LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton, our goal is to help you obtain benefits as quickly as possible. We provide exceptional legal guidance at all levels of appeals. We keep you informed on the progress of your claim and will work tirelessly to obtain a favorable resolution so that you can live your life without fear of being hungry, homeless or destitute.
Baltimore Social Security Disability Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Handle All Aspects of Disability Claims
If you need help filing for disability or need information about available programs that you might qualify for, contact us today. For more than 30 years, LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton have been a trusted source of legal advice for people with disabilities. Contact us online or call 800-547-4LAW (4529) today to schedule your free consultation with one of our dedicated and skilled Maryland disability lawyers.
