For three decades, our social security disability attorneys have helped clients in Erie navigate the Social Security Administration’s disability requirements. We know that the SSA’s system, requirements, calculations, and income limits are complex.
Since simple application mistakes can delay the benefits you need to pay your rent, mortgage, food bills, and basic living expenses, it’s wise to consult with an experienced attorney.
Our attorneys will guide you through:
- Application process
- Appeals process
- Understanding eligibility requirements
The application process can be stressful and intimidating, especially for those already dealing with serious health issues. Our compassionate attorneys are here to make the experience as stress-free as possible.
Click here to contact us about your claim.
Our offices located in Toledo & Findlay are well equipped and eager to serve all of our clients in Erie.
How Is Social Security Disability Calculated?
Social Security Disability does not provide benefits based on the severity of your disability. Disability benefit amounts are based on your lifetime earnings prior to your disability. Benefits are based on your primary insurance amount (PIA), which is a formula that uses your highest years of earnings to determine your monthly benefits. The number of years used in the calculation will vary based on the age of disability.
Are There Income Limits for Social Security Disability?
Since these benefits are meant to financially help those who cannot work due to disability, working in any capacity can complicate your case. When you’re able to work, your earnings and job activities will be scrutinized and monitored.
If you are employed, your income must be under a specified dollar amount in order to retain eligibility. This amount is referred to as substantial gainful activity or SGA. The substantial gainful activity thresholds per month in 2024 are:
- Statutorily blind individuals have an SGA of $2,590
- Non-blind individuals have an SGA of $1,550
Anyone found to earn more than the monthly SGA limit will not meet the criteria for disability under SSA’s terms. However, the more common reason clients often hire us as their Erie Social Security disability attorney is they are not found to be disabled based on medical evidence.
What Does a Social Security Disability Attorney Do?
If you’re disabled and unable to work, SSD benefits can help you maintain financial independence. However, the process of filing an application can be frustrating and complicated. When you’re already facing significant health and financial challenges, it can be a relief to have someone in your corner guiding you through the process. That’s precisely what a Social Security disability attorney can do for you.
An SSD attorney will be highly knowledgeable of the application process and the documentation you’ll need to support your case. If your application is denied or a problem arises, your lawyer will know which steps to take.
Specifically, an SSD attorney can help you with:
- Reviewing your case and helping you understand your options
- Gathering evidence and medical records to include with your application
- Ensuring that your application is complete
- Guidance during the appeal process
- Present your case and represent you at a hearing
You have enough on your plate trying to adjust to life changes and figure out this new chapter in your life. An SSD attorney can ease the burden of applying for benefits, so you can focus on more important things.
What Should You Do If You Are Denied Social Security Disability?
According to the SSA, denied disability applications have averaged 67%. In other words, it’s common for applicants to be denied the first time they apply.
However, an initial rejection does not mean that it’s the end of the road for your case. You have the option to appeal the decision if your Erie Social Security disability claim is denied.
Claims can be denied for a number of reasons:
- There wasn’t enough medical evidence documenting your disability
- You continued to work while your case was being reviewed, so your income was too high to qualify for benefits
- You did not provide the SSA with the additional information they requested
- You filed a new application instead of appealing the decision
Regardless of the reason, a denial simply means that you’ll need to go through the appeal process.
How Does the Appeal Process Work for Social Security Disability?
If your SSD application is denied, the SSA provides four opportunities to appeal the decision:
- Reconsideration. You have 60 days from the time you receive your decision to submit a request for reconsideration. An examiner from a local Disability Determination Services office will review the request and your original application.
- Hearing. If you don’t agree with the SSA’s response to your reconsideration, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. You have 60 days from the reconsideration decision to make this request. The hearing may take place online, in person, or over the phone.
- Appeals Council. If the ALJ denies your claim, you can ask the Appeals Council to review the decision. You will need to submit a request within 60 days of receiving your hearing decision. The Appeals Council can deny your request if they agree with the ALJ’s decision. Otherwise, they may remand it for another hearing or make a decision.
- Federal court review. If you don’t agree with the Appeals Council’s decision, you can ask for a federal court review. You must file within 60 days of receiving your decision.
The appeal process can be intimidating and confusing. An experienced Social Security Disability attorney can help you navigate each step, ensuring that you understand which documents to gather and that your application is complete.
Get Help from an Experienced Social Security Disability Attorney Near Erie
If you’re disabled and need SSD benefits, you don’t have to go through the application process alone. Our skilled and experienced attorneys are here to help.
We have been assisting clients with their Erie Social Security disability claims for over three decades. Our attorneys are available through our offices in Toledo and Findlay.
Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.
