Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) provides monetary payments to workers in New York State who have become unable to work due to an injury or serious illness. A few examples of such qualifying conditions include cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disorders, and treatment-resistant mental health disorders.

When it comes to receiving disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA), it’s essential to understand how Social Security disability is defined.

Defining Social Security Disability

social security disability lawyers syracuse new yorkThe SSA uses three main criteria to determine if an individual is eligible for disability benefits:

  1. Inability to Continue Previous Work: The first criterion is that your medical condition should make it impossible for you to continue the type of work you did before becoming ill or injured. This means that your condition must significantly impair your ability to perform your previous job duties.
  2. Inability to Do Other Types of Work: The second criterion is that your medical condition should prevent you from transitioning to any other type of work. This means that your condition should limit your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity, regardless of the specific job.
  3. Duration of the Condition: The third criterion is that your medical condition must have lasted for at least 12 months, be expected to last for at least 12 months, or be considered fatal. This ensures that the SSA is providing benefits to individuals with long-term disabilities.

It’s important to note that the SSA considers not only the medical aspects of your condition but also factors such as your age, education, and work experience when determining your eligibility for disability benefits. These factors play a role in assessing your ability to adapt to different types of work.

Proving Your Disability

Proving that you meet the definition for Social Security disability can be a challenging task. The majority of social security disability claims are initially denied, making it crucial to provide extensive documentation of your medical condition and its impact on your ability to work. Here are some steps you can take to improve your chances of proving your disability:

  1. Obtain Comprehensive Medical Documentation: Gather all relevant medical records, including diagnoses, treatment plans, test results, and statements from healthcare professionals. This documentation should clearly demonstrate the severity and duration of your condition.
  2. Provide Detailed Work History: Submit a comprehensive work history that outlines your previous job duties, the physical and mental demands of those roles, and how your condition has hindered your ability to perform them. This information helps the SSA evaluate your limitations and assess your eligibility for disability benefits.
  3. Consider Legal Representation: Due to the complex nature of the disability application and appeals process, it’s beneficial to contact from a highly qualified social security disability attorney near you. They can guide you through the process, ensure all necessary documentation is provided, and advocate for your rights to secure the benefits you deserve.

Expedited Processing and Dire Need

In certain circumstances, the SSA may expedite the claims process for individuals in dire need or with terminal illnesses. Expedited processing can help individuals access benefits more quickly and alleviate financial hardships. Here are some situations in which expedited processing may apply:

  1. Dire Need: If you are facing imminent homelessness, foreclosure, utility shutoff, or lack access to food or vital medical care, you may be eligible for expedited processing. Submit evidence supporting your dire need, such as eviction notices, utility cutoff notices, or letters from lenders.
  2. Terminal Illness: Individuals with terminal illnesses that are untreatable and expected to result in death may qualify for expedited processing. Examples of qualifying terminal illnesses include ALS, AIDS, certain types of cancer, or being on a waiting list for organ transplantation or receiving inpatient hospice care.
  3. Compassionate Allowance: The SSA has a program called Compassionate Allowances that prioritizes and expedites claims for individuals with severe conditions. These conditions are considered to meet the statutory standards for disability benefits by definition. Examples of conditions that qualify for compassionate allowances include certain types of cancer, adult non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and malignant multiple sclerosis.
  4. Veterans and Active Duty Service Members: Veterans and active-duty service members who become disabled while on active duty may be eligible for expedited processing, even if their disability is unrelated to their military service.

It’s crucial to consult with a social security disability attorney to determine if your situation qualifies for expedited processing and to ensure that you navigate the claims process effectively.

Overcoming a Denial of SSD Benefits

Receiving a denial letter for your Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be disheartening, but it’s not the end of the road. Many initial applications are denied, but there are steps you can take to overcome the denial and secure the benefits you deserve. Here’s what you can do if your SSD claim is denied:

  1. Stay Calm and Read the Denial Letter: It’s essential not to panic when you receive a denial letter. Take the time to read the letter carefully and understand the reasons behind the denial. This information will guide your next steps in the appeals process.
  2. Collect Additional Evidence: Assess the reasons for the denial and gather any additional evidence that can strengthen your case. This may involve obtaining more comprehensive medical records, seeking additional expert opinions, or providing documentation of your work history and limitations.
  3. File an Appeal: You have a limited time window to file an appeal after receiving a denial letter. It’s crucial to file the appeal promptly and ensure all necessary documentation and forms are submitted within the deadline. Consider seeking legal representation to navigate the appeals process effectively.
  4. Retain Legal Counsel: Working with a disability attorney can significantly increase your chances of success during the appeals process. An experienced attorney can review your case, identify any weaknesses, gather necessary evidence, and present a compelling argument on your behalf.
  5. Prepare for the Hearing: If your appeal advances to an administrative law judge hearing, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Work closely with your attorney to gather all relevant evidence, obtain expert opinions, and develop a persuasive case strategy.
  6. Stay Persistent and Seek Guidance: Overcoming a denial of SSD benefits can be a lengthy and complex process. It’s important to stay persistent, follow the guidance of your attorney, and seek support from advocacy organizations that specialize in disability rights.

Experienced Social Security Disability Lawyers in Syracuse, NY

The application and appeal process for social security disability benefits can be frustrating and stressful.  At the law offices of McMahon & Kublick, PC in Syracuse, New York, we can offer timely, knowledgeable experience and professional expertise in Social Security Disability cases based on over 40 years’ experience in Central New York and New York State.

Our dedicated Syracuse social security disability attorneys will work with you, provide guidance, and help you vigorously pursue your claim.  Generally, we provide all our services on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing out of pocket unless we win your case. We also have wide experience in New York State workers’ compensation law, as well as related personal injury cases.

Contact us today to schedule a free, no obligation case evaluation with one of our experienced Social Security Disability lawyers and find out how we can help you.