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San Diego SSD Lawyer

Should you get a lawyer for your disability appeal?

Person sitting in wheelchair after suffering a work injuryIf you are disabled and can't work, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. But applying for them and getting approved can be a difficult ordeal. Having experienced legal representation can make a big difference. Robert A. McLaughlin, APC can guide you through every step of the process, from applying for benefits to appealing a claim that has been denied. Our office has the experience, knowledge and resources to help you file a successful claim. And we help applicants who have been turned down by the government.

We can make sure you have the necessary medical evidence and documentation to prove that you meet the conditions for SSDI. If we don't have the documentation, we will contact your doctors to get it. We can also represent you at all appeals and hearings and can help you prepare for giving testimony. If your claim is still denied, we will fight the decision in court, if needed.

Our goal is to ensure you get the benefits you are entitled to receive, so you don't have to worry about paying the bills. You pay us no fees until we come through for you. Contact us to learn how we can help you with your SSDI claim.

"Am I eligible for Social Security disability benefits?"

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial support for people with a physical or mental disability who are no longer able to work. It is funded through payroll taxes.

In order to qualify for SSDI, certain conditions must be met:

  • You are no longer able to continue the work you've been doing
  • The Social Security Administration has determined that you can't do other work because of your disability
  • Your disability has lasted or is expected to last at least a year

Injured worker holding the handle of a caneThere are many types of conditions that are considered a disability under this program. They include blindness, deafness, breathing problems, heart disease, immune system disorders, mental disorders, neurological disorders and other severe medical conditions.

Another federal program is Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which provides financial support to people with a physical or mental disability who have either never worked, or have a short work history.

Robert A. McLaughlin, APC has extensive knowledge of both of these federal programs and the experience to help you file a successful claim.

"How do I apply for Social Security Disability or SSI?"

You can apply for disability benefits at your local Social Security office. But getting approved can take a long time. You will be asked about your work, education and medical history. In some cases, you may be asked to undergo an examination by a Social Security Administration doctor.

Many disability claims are denied-the first time. If your claim is denied, you can request a reconsideration of the decision. If that fails, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. When you finally get a hearing date, the judge will hear the appeal and issue a written decision with a few months. If your claim is still denied, there are other avenues you can pursue.

The process of applying for SSDI can be lengthy and frustrating. It some cases, it can take more than a year to get your claim approved.