Social Security Disability

If an injury or illness prevents you from returning to your job, you may qualify for monthly Social Security Disability payments.

Social Security Disability is a program of the Federal Government designed to provide monthly payments to a disabled individual.  The amount of the payment you receive is based upon your income while you were able to work.  Assuming you are totally, permanently disabled, you may collect Social Security Disability benefits until you reach age 65. At that time, your Social Security Disability benefits will convert to a Social Security Retirement benefit.

In order to collect Social Security Disability benefits, you must have earned wages and paid into the Social Security system in at least 20 of the last 40 quarters.  You must also be totally disabled, or, in the words of the applicable statute, "incapable of engaging in substantial gainful employment."

If you are denied Social Security Disability benefits you may request a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge, who will consider testimony from you and review your medical records.  The Administrative Law Judge may also hear medical evidence or vocational evidence presented by the Social Security Administration in opposition to your claim.

If you must request a hearing in order to get your Social Security Disability benefits, you should seek the advice and counsel of a lawyer.  For more information on how we may be of service in this area, please contact our office.

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