Social Security Disability Insurance & Supplemental Security Income Lawyers Near Arvin, CA
At Peña & Bromberg, we understand how difficult it can be to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Many California residents file valid claims that are denied by the Social Security Administration (SSA) because they don’t meet certain criteria and qualifications that have been established in order to prevent fraudulent claims. However, most of the time, claimants simply file incorrectly, or don’t provide enough information or evidence to support their disability claim.
The complicated nature of filing a disability claim and applying for benefits means that most initial applications are denied, even when claimants have legitimate illnesses and conditions that prevent them from earning a living wage. This is why it’s essential to work with a qualified and experienced disability attorney who can increase your chances of receiving the benefits you need.
Who Qualifies for SSDI and SSI?
Individuals who have disabilities that prevent them from taking part in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and are therefore unable to earn a living wage will qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, provided they can supply ample proof of their condition and have put money into the Social Security System for a number of years prior to the onset of their disability.
Additionally, claimants who apply for SSDI or SSI must have a condition that is considered a qualifying impairment. The SSA uses what is known as the Blue Book to determine whether or not someone’s disability, or combination of conditions, qualify them for benefits. Within the Blue Book, there are several listings of impairments which describe the types of conditions, both mental and physical, that qualify individuals for disability.
However, if a claimant’s disability is not listed in the Blue Book, but it still leaves them unable to earn a living wage, they can qualify for disability benefits provided there is enough evidence to support their claim and their condition is medically equivalent to a disability listing. A claimant’s condition must also be expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
Types of Benefits
Individuals can apply for either SSDI or SSI to receive disability benefits, both of which are federal programs designed to provide financial assistance to those who cannot work due to disabling conditions.
SSDI
Social Security Disability Insurance is awarded to qualifying individuals who have put money into the Social Security System prior to their disability, thereby making them eligible to receive SSDI when it becomes necessary. Adults younger than 65 and older than 18 can file for SSDI.
SSI
Supplemental Security Income is awarded to individuals who are disabled, blind, or over the age of 65. SSI benefits are paid by general funds of the U.S. Treasury, so applicants do not have to have paid into the Social Security System to receive these benefits. However, SSI is only awarded to individuals with extremely limited income and resources. Therefore, should an SSI beneficiary come into a large sum of money, such as a lump sum settlement, they may no longer be eligible for SSI, despite their disabilities.
If you’re struggling to apply for SSDI or SSI benefits in California, contact our Social Security attorneys in Fresno. Our legal team has the experience and dedication you need to increase your chances of being approved for benefits.
Contact Our California Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one is looking for legal assistance filing for Social Security Disability, the lawyers at Peña & Bromberg can help. We have extensive experience helping disabled individuals get the benefits they need and deserve. We know precisely how to file applications with the SSA, what medical records to provide, and how to ensure the appropriate documents are provided on time.
We also handle SSI and SSDI appeals, so if you have already applied and been denied benefits, the team at Peña & Bromberg is here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our Social Security Disability attorneys.
