Fitchburg Social Security Attorney
Social Security Disability Claims
The disabilities claim process is complicated and lengthy. At Bonville and Howard we guide our clients through the claims process and if and when possible, expedite our clients’ claims for benefits.
There are two different programs under which the Social Security Administration may provide disability benefits to disabled adults and children.
Social Security Disability Insurance (“SSDI”) is funded through the payroll taxes that individuals pay during most of their working lives if they are employed by non-public employers. Public employees such as Federal, state, and municipal agencies fund their own separate disability and retirement programs.
Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”) is a separate program which provides monthly disability benefits to children and adults who are not insured under SSDI. Those who apply for SSI must meet the same disability requirements as SSDI applicants and must also lack sufficient income or assets to meet their needs.
Have you applied yet? This is normally accomplished by going to the local social security office to speak with a claims representative or you may apply online for SSDI benefits here: https://secure.ssa.gov/iClaim/dib. You can
learn more on how to apply for SSI benefits here: http://www.ssa.gov/pgm/ssi.htm.
Social Security typically takes up to four ( 4) months to process an initial application. Most initial applications are denied. Applicants have only sixty (60) days from the date of denial to file a Request for Reconsideration.
If your initial application has been denied please contact the Leominster disability attorneys at Bonville & Howard for a free initial case review at 978-345-4144 or email us at contact@bonvillelaw.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When do I become eligible for disability benefits?
- a. People who are insured for disability should apply once it becomes likely that they will be out of work for at least 12 consecutive months or if they have already been out of work for 5 months;
- Retroactive benefits will be paid for a period of up to one (1) year before the application date. For uninsured applicants applying for SSI, eligibility to receive them begins as of the date of the application.
- How does one qualify for disability benefits?
- An applicant may qualify for disability benefits by proving from their medical records and their testimony that either:
- 1. They met or exceed a specific impairment listing in the Social Security Rules; or
- n. They lack the capacity to work on a regular full time basis in a job that
exists in the local and national economy.
- An applicant may qualify for disability benefits by proving from their medical records and their testimony that either:
For more Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the National Organization of Social Security Representatives page: http:/ /nosscr.org/benefits-overview