Law Offices of Lisa Douglas

If you’re unable to earn a living because of a chronic illness or a disability, you might be able to qualify for social security disability benefits provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you’re not sure how to apply for your well-deserved benefits, we’ve got you covered. For a successful social security disability claim, you must provide clear medical evidence and supporting documentation. Here’s a simple yet comprehensive guide for you to apply for Social Security benefits. Step 1: Determine Your Medical Eligibility If you’re unable to go to work for a minimum of 12 months, check to ensure that your medical or physical condition and the related symptoms meet the criteria provided in the Blue Book  listing. The Blue Book contains sections for various body systems, and every section has detailed listings for disabling conditions. Step 2:   Meet Your Non-Medical Requirements In order to qualify for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), you need to have ...

Any person who cannot work because of an illness or injury is eligible for Social Security benefits. But how does the administration determine the actual amount of benefits? The calculation of Social Security Benefits is done the same as the Social Security retirement benefits. Both figures are based on the person’s history of “covered earnings,” that is the amount of their income on which they paid  Social Security taxes . Let’s learn more about it in detail. How Does SSA Figure the Benefits? The Social Security Administration (SSA) begins the process by calculating your mean monthly income throughout your work life and adjusting it for your historical wage growth. They then plug that amount into a mathematical formula that determines the amount of your primary insurance (PIA); that’s also known as the full retirement benefit. The PIA formula The formula for PIA  is progressive — it’s weighted so that it calculated relatively higher benefits to people with low income — and th...

Workers and their families may contact an attorney to consult with them on whether or not to pursue a social security disability  claim. Many people receive a denial on their initial request for disability benefits and should appeal the unfavorable decision. It is not until you get before the Administrative Law Judge that your chances for approval increase.  A social security disability advocate is someone who helps you understand your diagnosis as well as your legal rights in all matters about SSDI/SSI. They will also help you navigate the complex bureaucracy that comes with filing an SSDI claim while also offering support throughout the process. Here’s all you need to know about how a social security disability advocate can help you: How does hiring a social security disability advocate help you? A social security disability advocate provides advocacy to those with a disability who are denied or under review. They work closely with the person applying for disability benefits...