Social Security Disability Lawyer Milwaukee, WI 

Professional Assistance With Your Social Security Disability Claim

If you’ve recently suffered an injury or illness that left you no longer able to work, you might be wondering if you can receive Social Security Disability benefits, and our Milwaukee, WI social security disability lawyer is here to help you. SSA benefits serve to help those affected cover the cost of bills and other related expenses due to their injury or illness. Figuring out the claims process to receive SSA benefits however is not always easy or straightforward, and mistakes on your application can result in major delays or outright rejection. Contact Hickey & Turim, S.C. today.

The first step in this process is to determine if you have a qualifying diagnosis or condition, as defined by the Social Security Administration (SSA). SSA defines a disability as a medical condition that will affect your ability to perform basic work-related tasks (such as sitting, standing, and communicating effectively) for at least 12 months. The majority of medical impairments considered to be disabling by the SSA are conditions that are permanent.

You must also have been gainfully employed in a job that was covered by the SSA prior to your disability, and you must have been employed in an SSA-covered job for a certain amount of time. It can be hard to find out if you have an illness or injury that qualifies for SSA benefits. If you aren’t sure if you qualify because of this, be sure to contact a Social Security Disability lawyer for counsel.

Social Security Benefits for Beginners

Those who think of social security and have no idea what this is all about can probably benefit from talking to a social security disability lawyer at Hickey & Turim in Milwaukee, WI. A skilled and highly experienced Social Security disability benefits lawyer can explain to you everything you need to know about how it pertains to your case. While the concept of Social Security may seem difficult to grasp, it can be summarized in simpler words so that beginners can understand what this program is all about. It is composed of many parts, and its structure can be difficult to comprehend. However, developing a basic understanding of how the SSA benefits program works if you have suffered an injury or illness and are looking to obtain the benefits that you are entitled to. It is important for working people to know what social security is, so they are aware of how it can benefit them in their future after retirement. It is also important to understand your rights as a person with a disability so you can fight for benefits if your application is wrongly denied. 

Social Security Disability Insurance

Social Security disability insurance otherwise known as SSDI is a social insurance program under which workers are provided with the ability to earn benefits by working and paying Social Security taxes. The program provides benefits to disabled workers and their dependents, and for those who can no longer work due to disability the disability program is there to replace some of the lost income.

However the eligibility rules for Social Security’s disability or them differ from those of private plans or other government agencies, because Social Security does not provide temporary or partial disability benefits like workers compensation or veterans benefits do. This means there are very specific guidelines to receive disability as outlined under the Social Security act.

To receive disability benefits you must meet the definition of disability under the Social Security act, which states that a person is disabled under the act that cannot work due to a severe medical condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or will result in death. The person’s medical condition must prevent them from doing work that they did in the past and it must prevent them from adjusting to another job.

The act defines disability so strictly, that Social Security disability beneficiaries are usually among the most severely impaired in the country, not to mention that the Social Security disability benefits actually put people on disability on a set income due to restrictions on how much they are allowed to have at one time.

However, disability is something that can happen to anyone at any age, you can be seriously injured or killed as a result of traumatic accidents, or medical conditions such as cancer or mental illness can alter your life.

There has been statistical research done that shows that more than one in four of 20-year-olds will never read retirement age without a disability. This may force them to rely on the Social Security disability benefits for incomes or, and disability benefits to provide a critical source of finances to people when they need it the most, however it does also limit them.

The number of people qualifying for Social Security due to disability benefits has increased, for over 60 years Social Security disability income has helped increase the number of workers and their families to replace lost income. 

The Social Security office works aggressively to prevent, detect and prosecute fraud. They aggressively identify those who commit fraud and prosecute them aggressively as well. The most effective measures to guard against fraud is the cooperative disability investigations program which is a program that investigate suspicious disability claims early before make a decision to award those benefits.

If You Have a Qualifying Diagnosis

If you have a qualifying diagnosis, you are automatically considered disabled by the SSA and you may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, this means that you may qualify for benefits; it does not mean you are automatically approved. You still need to fill out an application and gather the supporting documents. The SSA requires you to prove the severity of your condition and show how your ability to work is affected.

Working While Receiving Disability Benefits

The short answer is that you cannot be employed full-time while collecting benefits from the SSA. However, in some cases, individuals may be able to work part-time. Each case is unique and the stipulations for SSDI and SSI are different. Your case may be considered an exception. If this is something that may apply to your own case, you’ll want to contact a Social Security Disability lawyer in Milwaukee, WI for help. They will assess your case and determine if you can still work part-time while collecting SSA benefits. 

Submitting the Proper Documentation

The more support you can show for your disability claim, the better your chances for approval may be. It is recommended to include whatever medical records you have that explain your condition as well as the necessary treatments that you have received or need in the future. Include records showing diagnostic tests, types of treatment, medication, and other expenses. Most applicants are encouraged to submit documents such as:

• Employment history
• Proof of income
• Evidence of income loss due to disability
• Birth certificate
• Social Security number
• Diagnostic reports of the disability

The application timeline depends on your diagnosis and the supporting documents you can provide. It can take up to 90 days for an application to be reviewed and for a decision to be made. Be patient as your application is processed. An important note is that almost 70% of claims are denied during the initial application phase; for this reason, it is imperative that you include as much documentation as you can. The more documents you can include, the stronger and more compelling your application will be. Make sure that all of your submitted documents don’t contain errors or missing information, otherwise it may complicate the validity of your application. The SSA is looking for concrete evidence that shows an inability to stay gainfully employed as a result of your medical condition.

If Your Application Is Denied

If your application is denied, you’ll receive a letter from the SSA that clearly states why it was denied. It is common for valid applications to be denied due to minor errors, insufficient information, or misunderstandings. Don’t lose hope if your application is initially denied, as there is still action you can take. It’s still possible to have your claim reconsidered through an appeals process, however. The SSA requires you to submit an appeal in writing within 60 days of being denied, so you’ll want to contact a lawyer as soon as possible if you’ve encountered this problem. They will be able to guide you through your next steps, gather the necessary information and documents, and ensure that your appeal is done correctly.

Persistent Myths About Social Security Disability

If you’ve been injured or fallen seriously ill, you may be unable to continue working. Social security disability payments are typically available under these circumstances. Some employees are reluctant to file a claim for disability because they believe in certain untruths. Speaking with a social security disability lawyer in Milwaukee, WI can prevent legitimate claimants from harboring discouraging misconceptions.

• Myth #1: Social Security Disability Is Undeserved

Many people don’t understand that Social Security Disability Insurance comes out of worker paychecks. Therefore, those who draw SSDI are not financially draining others. They are simply drawing on monies they gave while employed. If need be, the attorneys at Hickey & Turim SC can prove to doubtful benefits providers that you paid into the program.

• Myth #2: Social Security Disability Is Easy To Scam

You must meet strict requirements to qualify for SSDI. Those responsible for determining eligibility look closely at every applicant. These individuals understand that injuries are not always readily visible; they comprehend why examining medical records is one of their essential duties. Getting around the rules is rare, and those who do are likely to face a lawsuit. If you’re worried that you might be found guilty of cheating the system, hire a social security disability lawyer in Milwaukee, WI. Having a legal representative answer your questions is highly reassuring.

• Myth #3: Social Security Disability Is Impossible To Get

It is, in fact, true that many people get denied when they apply for SSDI. However, applicants get multiple opportunities to file appeals. Make the most out of each attempt by hiring a social security disability lawyer in Milwaukee, WI. A legal professional with an understanding of how the system works can optimize your attempts at getting a ruling reversed.

• Myth #4: Social Security Disability Approvals Vanish When You Start Working Again

Over time, your condition may improve, and returning to your job becomes possible. As great as this is, you never know when your health might deteriorate once more. Should this happen within five years of qualifying for SSDI, you do not need to reapply from scratch. It’s even possible to try out working again without sacrificing your benefits for a certain period. Hire an attorney at Hickey & Turim SC if a Social Security representative denies your request to have one of these trials.

When getting hurt prevents you from earning a paycheck, the pain you feel isn’t just physical. It also puts pain in your wallet. Take advantage of SSDI so that you suffer minimal financial discomfort.

Milwaukee Social Security Disability Infographic

Milwaukee Social Security Disability Statistics

According to statistics from the Social Security Administration (SSA), out of the more than 3.5 million disability claims filed each year, the agency denies approximately 60 percent of them. Data shows that the percentage rate of claims denied increases each year.

If you are denied disability benefits, you have the right to appeal the decision. However, due to the high rate of denied claims, it is critical to have a Social Security lawyer advocating for you in this process. Call our office to learn more.

Milwaukee Social Security Disability FAQs

Is There a Reason Why I Would Be Denied Social Security?

There may be instances where a Social Security application is denied. It is not uncommon to have an application be denied. It can be financially and emotionally challenging to receive a letter of denial for a program that you have been paying into your entire working life. Many people count on receiving Social Security benefits to support them once they are no longer able to work. However, there is legal help available for those who find themselves in such situations, and they can choose to appeal the rejection. Those who feel they have been wrongfully denied may seek help from an attorney. Some of the reasons why this may happen can include:

• You have not earned enough working credits
• Your application had incorrect or blank information
• You filed too early (you have to wait until around 4 months before turning 62)
• You are already collecting Social Security disability benefits (retirement benefits serve the same purpose as disability)

What Can I Do About a Social Security Denial?

After receiving a notice of denial from the Social Security administration, you can request an appeal within 60 days. You fill out a request for reconsideration, explain why you believe your application should be reviewed again, and supplement with any additional paperwork that emphasizes your points. A Milwaukee, WI social security disability lawyer can help a lot during this process. If this does not work, an applicant can request a hearing in front of a judge. If results are still not found, then the applicant will have to essentially sue the Social Security administration in federal court. If you are considering taking action to get your application approved after a denial, you may want extra support from a social security disability lawyer serving Milwaukee, WI. Call Hickey & Turim today!

How Do I Get My SSDI Claim Approved?

As a Social Security disability lawyer in Milwaukee, WI knows, like one from Hickey & Turim, SC, disabilities can affect you in many different ways. Many people living with disabilities face many different struggles, from being able to afford the cost of treatment and other expenses. The Social Security Disability program is designed to help individuals who have a qualifying disability, which are usually severe. Many people rely on these benefits for financial support, but they can be hard to obtain. Here are some things that you should know about applying for disability benefits. 

What Do I Need to Prove My Disability?

The Social Security Disability program is highly strict, compared to worker’s compensation or other benefit programs. For you to receive benefits, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. In order to prove that you have a disability, some of the main requirements include meeting the definition of a person with a disability and that you are unable to work because of your disability. Submit documents such as your employment history, Social Security number, any related medical reports by your primary doctor and other medical staff that you see for your care. 

What Disabilities Are Eligible?

There are a range of disabilities that a person must have so that they are eligible to receive benefits. These can apply to both adults and children. Qualifying disabilities include musculoskeletal disorders (arthritis), impairment of special senses (loss of vision or hearing), cardiovascular illnesses, issues affecting digestive system, and respiratory illnesses such as asthma. Talk to a Social Security Disability lawyer if you are unsure whether your disability qualifies. 

What Reasons Can Get a Claim Denied?

There are critical mistakes that can result in your claim getting denied. Filling out your claim with misleading or false information and forgetting to include details about your injury are common reasons for the denial of many Social Security Disability claims. There needs to be sufficient medical evidence that you have a disability. The reason your claim was denied could also be related to other factors, such as income, your disability is temporary or your disability is not severe enough. However, you can request an appeal if your claim was denied, such as for medical reasons. 

What if I Need a Larger Benefit Amount?

Certain life changes may make you eligible to receive a higher benefit amount. Some of the qualifying life events include the death of a spouse and if you have a deceased adult child that was supporting you financially. There are other unique circumstances that may enable you to increase your benefit amount, so to learn more discuss your case with a lawyer. 

Hickey & Turim, S.C., Milwaukee Social Security Disability Lawyer

735 N. Water Street, Suite 1222, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Contact Our Milwaukee Social Security Disability Lawyer Today

If your claim was rejected the first time, you should not give up in trying to get your claim approved. It can be hard to obtain the Social Security Disability benefits that you depend on to support you when you have trouble getting your claim approved. Schedule a risk-free consultation with a Social Security Disability lawyer based in Milwaukee, WI and they will be able to provide you with legal assistance.