Are you eligible for Social Security disability benefits?

The first question I am asked by clients is:  “Will my claim for Social Security disability benefits be approved?” To be approved for disability benefits, you must meet the definition of disabled in the Social Security Act. The most important consideration is your ability to work.

Under the Social Security Act, a person is disabled if he or she is (1) unable “to engage in any substantial gainful activity” (2) by reason of “any medically determinable physical or mental impairment” (3) that “can be expected to result in death” or that “has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”

For applicants under the age of 50, this complicated definition boils down to the following question: Can you do any job on a full time basis? Full time means 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, week after week, at a competitive quality and pace. If not, you may be disabled. Older applicants may be disabled even if they can still perform some jobs. I can assess your particular circumstances and determine what you need to prove to establish that you are disabled.

To apply for disability benefits

There are three ways to apply for Social Security disability benefits:

• in person at your local office
• by telephone, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
• online

The Social Security Administration provides instructions for applying on its website, www.ssa.gov/pgm/disability.htm. Although you can apply on your own, an experienced disability attorney, with offices in both Clinton and Rolla, Missouri, can help you with the application process so that you can avoid mistakes and maximize your chances for early approval.

Appeal if your claim is denied

If your claim for Social Security disability benefits is denied, you may be tempted to give up. Don’t make this serious mistake. The Social Security Administration often makes the wrong decision initially.

After your claim is denied, you can appeal and have a hearing before an administrative law judge. Your best chance of success is at the hearing, which is the only time you will get to speak to the decision maker in person. Social Security denies about two-thirds of the initial claims it receives, but it awards disability benefits in well over half the claims that are appealed to the hearing stage.

For help with your Social Security disability application or appeal

If you need help with a Social Security disability application or appeal, contact an experienced disability lawyer, contact me – Fred R. Bunch. I will represent you with skill and compassion.

To arrange for a free evaluation of your case, please describe your claim using the form on this page, and my office will respond promptly. Or call us if you prefer.

Fred R. Bunch
Clinton, MO and Rolla, MO disability lawyer
Dedicated.  Experienced.  Compassionate.  Advocate for the Injured and Disabled.

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