Disability can happen to anyone at any time. When you are unable to work and earn like you did in the past, you may be wondering about your eligibility to receive disability benefits. Monthly benefits are available through two federal programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Applying for Social Security benefits is a time-consuming process. Disability lawyers in Houston, Texas use their knowledge of the Social Security system to efficiently guide you through the claims process and set expectations on when you may begin receiving benefits. 

Disability Attorneys Understand the Social Security System

The Social Security system can be confusing. Understanding the impairment criteria and if you are eligible to receive SSDI or SSI can be challenging. Chermol & Fishman, LLC are well-versed in the system and can evaluate your case. They will help you understand if your impairment meets Social Security’s criteria for disability and whether you should apply for SSDI or SSI.

After determining your eligibility, your lawyer can also help you file your disability claim. This includes filling out the required forms and identifying what medical evidence and other documents you will need for your application. This can be a time-consuming process, particularly if you need to contact multiple medical providers for copies of your records or other supporting documentation. 

Your Lawyer Will Advocate for You

Hiring a disability lawyer means hiring an advocate. They will accurately and efficiently file your claim, reducing unnecessary delays and denials. Moreover, they can communicate with your doctors and Social Security representatives on your behalf. This can be important for persuasively explaining your situation and the reasons why you should receive benefits. Having an attorney on your side can reduce stress, giving you time to focus on your health.

Your Attorney Can Handle the Appeals

If your claim is denied, your Houston disability lawyer will handle the appeals process. Their representation, resources, and skills can become critical at this point. They can identify why your claim was denied and craft a strategy for addressing Social Security’s concerns with your application. Having a legal professional explain the appeals process, the  course of action, and handling these next steps can be reassuring.   

Should I Hire a Houston Disability Lawyer? 

If you have questions about the disability application forms, Social Security’s impairment criteria, the medical evidence you need to provide, or if your initial claim was denied, a Houston disability lawyer can help. 

Disability attorneys are paid on a capped, contingency fee basis. This means that they are only paid if your disability claim is approved. This amount is capped by the federal government at 25% of back benefits received, with a maximum fee of $7,200.

If you are facing disabilities that prevent you from working, you might qualify for Social Security benefits, designed to assist those who cannot earn a living due to physical or mental impairments. Navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be challenging, and understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is crucial. An experienced disability attorney can play a pivotal role in this scenario. They can thoroughly evaluate your claim by reviewing your medical history, work experience, and the extent of your disability to determine if you qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits. Furthermore, a skilled attorney can guide you through the application process, help gather and present necessary documentation, and represent you in hearings, if needed. Their expertise can significantly enhance your chances of a favorable outcome, ensuring you receive the support you need to manage your disability.

Disclaimer: The content in this article is provided for general knowledge. It does not constitute legal advice, and readers should seek advice from qualified legal professionals regarding particular cases or situations.

Published by: Martin De Juan