Social Security Disability Lawyers in Phoenix, AZ

At Pekas Smith: Arizona Disability Attorneys, our Phoenix Supplemental Security Income attorneys work relentlessly to help people secure the maximum available disability benefits. With deep experience handling complex SSI claims, our law firm has recovered millions of dollars in financial compensation for our clients.

If your SSI claim was denied or you have questions about the claims process, we can help. For a free, no-obligation consultation with a top-rated Phoenix SSI lawyer, please call our telephone number at 763-445-9074 or contact us directly online.

An Overview of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is one of the two primary federal disability insurance programs. 

Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), there is no employment history requirement for SSI claims. You may also hear SSI benefits referred to as Title 16 benefits. In order to qualify for SSI benefits, you must meet both medical and financial eligibility standards:

• Disability Status: To get disability insurance benefits through Social Security, an applicant must prove that they have a disabling medical condition. The disability test is similar for both SSI and SSDI claims. To bring a successful SSI claim, an applicant needs comprehensive medical records and evidence that confirm the existence and severity of their disability.
• Financial Need: Supplemental Security Income claims are subject to very strict financial eligibility standards. SSI is a needs-based disability program, so the Social Security Administration (SSA) will review an applicant’s income and financial resources. You can be denied SSI benefits on the grounds that your monthly income is too high.

An applicant who qualifies for Supplemental Security Income benefits—meaning they have satisfied the program’s medical and financial requirements—will automatically qualify for Medicaid coverage through the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). 

If you have any questions about SSI benefits, Medicaid eligibility, or any related issue, you can contact one of our knowledgeable SSI lawyers in Phoenix.

Why Are SSI Claims Denied in Arizona?

Unfortunately, many qualified applicants struggle to get Supplemental Security Income benefits. In fact, the SSA’s own data shows that a significant portion of initial claims are denied.

Even a seemingly small problem with your application could result in a delay or an outright denial. That’s why it’s crucial to seek out assistance from a Phoenix SSI lawyer.

Some common reasons why SSI payment claims are denied in Phoenix include the following:

• Errors on the initial application for SSI benefits;
• Lack of sufficient medical documentation;
• Disputes over the medical records; and
• A finding that the applicant’s income or financial resources are too high.

You Have the Right To Appeal an SSI Denial

It is important to emphasize that you have the right to file an appeal for any type of Social Security disability denial. Regardless of why your initial SSI claim was denied, you are not out of options.

There are several stages to the SSI appeals process, including the following:

• Reconsideration: A reconsideration is a second, fresh review of your initial SSI application. You can and should submit additional supporting evidence and information at this stage.
• Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge: If your SSI claim is denied on reconsideration, you can appeal the decision before an administrative law judge. It is imperative that you are properly prepared for this type of hearing. Our law firm has represented over 15,000 clients at administrative hearings in Arizona.
• Appeals Council and/or Federal Litigation: If an administrative law judge rules against you, your SSI claim may be escalated to a hearing before a wider appeals council or to a federal court.

With SSI appeals, you must act quickly. A proactive approach and a thorough understanding of the appeals process can be the difference between a successful resolution and further denials. If you received a denial letter from the SSA, contact an experienced supplemental security income lawyer in Phoenix for immediate assistance.

You Can Trust the Phoenix SSI Lawyers at Pekas Smith: Arizona Disability Attorneys

Supplemental Security Income claims are highly complex. If you have questions about your rights or your options, you are certainly not alone. At Pekas Smith: Arizona Disability Attorneys, we know how to navigate the system and hold the SSA accountable for paying claims. When you reach out to our Phoenix office, you will have an opportunity to speak to an Arizona SSI lawyer who will:

• Answer your questions and explain your options;
• Gather all required documentation and complete the paperwork; and
• Take whatever legal action is necessary to maximize your SSI benefits.

We handle every Supplemental Security Income claim with care, compassion, and personal attention. With a long record of testimonials from our clients, our Phoenix Social Security disability lawyers will keep you informed on the status of your claim every step of the way. As there is no fee unless we win your case, you do not have to worry about the cost of hiring our SSI lawyers in Phoenix, AZ.

Call Our Supplemental Security Income Attorneys Today

At Pekas Smith: Arizona Disability Attorneys, our Phoenix SSI lawyers are skilled, experienced advocates for people and families. We work hard to ensure that you get the legal aid you need and receive the financial support you deserve. If you need help getting Supplemental Security Income benefits, our attorneys are ready to get started on your case.

Contact us at 763-445-9074 for a free, fully confidential consultation. We handle SSI claims and SSI appeals in the Phoenix metropolitan area and throughout the surrounding communities in Maricopa County. 

Frequently Asked Questions – Phoenix SSI Lawyers