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Applying for Social Security benefits can be a difficult process to navigate. At Pekas Smith, we understand how challenging it can be. Thankfully, you don’t have to face it alone. With the help of a Social Security disability lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, you can receive the benefits and payments you deserve.
Our disability attorneys are ready to assist with all of your needs and represent you at any stage of your disability insurance case. With over 30 years of experience and a proven track record of success, we’ve assisted thousands of clients across the state of Arizona in obtaining the payments and support they’re entitled to.
To talk about your SSDI case, contact us at 602.962.2818 or message us. We can start representing you today!
Understanding Social Security Benefits for People With Disabilities
Social Security disability benefits serve as a vital safety net, providing support to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying medical condition. If you find yourself facing the challenges of a disability that significantly limits your ability to perform daily tasks, these benefits can provide crucial financial assistance to help you maintain a semblance of stability.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers two primary programs:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): SSDI serves as a safety net for individuals who have contributed to the Social Security system through their earnings but now face challenges that hinder their ability to maintain employment. SSDI is based on your work history and earnings.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is designed to assist individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. SSI benefits also extend to children with disabilities.
Through these programs, the SSA offers benefits for various situations. Both programs aim to provide financial support to cover basic necessities such as housing, food, and medical care. An experienced Social Security disability lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, from the team at Pekas Smith can guide you through the process. We’ll help you understand the specific requirements of your situation and increase your chances of approval.
Disability Cases We Handle
For legal solutions regarding Social Security disability in Scottsdale, our lawyers handle all types of cases.
Social Security Disability Insurance
You work hard throughout your life. So, it’s only natural to expect that when life takes an unexpected turn, SSDI will be there to support you. To receive the benefit, you need to have a qualifying medical condition and sufficient work credits based on your employment history.
With a Scottsdale disability lawyer from Pekas Smith, receiving your benefits doesn’t have to be complicated. We are familiar with the law and know how to apply it effectively. We specialize in helping people get their benefits and manage the application process efficiently.
Supplemental Security Income
Many Americans rely on Supplemental Security Income to make ends meet and support their families. SSI payments help adults and children with disabilities who have limited resources. Understanding how SSI functions can help you better prepare to qualify for the program.
While a work history is not required, other factors determine if you qualify. You may also receive Medicaid to help with medical care and prescription costs. A Social Security disability lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, from our law firm can help you get benefits.
Disabled Adult Child (DAC)
If you become disabled before the age of 22, Disabled Adult Child benefits can provide assistance. When a parent is deceased, retired, or receiving disability payments, a disabled adult child may claim benefits based on their record.
Let our legal team review your DAC qualifications and prepare your application for success. We will ensure that all required documentation is submitted to maximize your chances of approval.
Disabled Widow and Disabled Widower Insurance Benefits (DWIB)
It is never easy to lose a loved one. However, the added stress of financial uncertainty can exacerbate the situation. You might be left wondering how to support yourself.
The Disabled Widow and Widower Insurance Benefits could provide assistance. You may be eligible for benefits based on the earnings record of the deceased spouse. Our lawyers can assess your eligibility and represent you through all steps to claim benefits.
How To Apply for Social Security Benefits
- Prepare Your Application: Gather all required documents, such as medical records, employment history, and proof of income.
- Submit Your Application: You can apply online or in person at your local Social Security office in Scottsdale.
- Application Review: The SSA will review your application to ensure it meets basic requirements.
- Disability Determination: The Disability Determination Services (DDS) office will evaluate your medical condition to decide if you qualify for benefits.
- Decision and Appeals: If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision through multiple stages, including reconsideration, hearings, and, if necessary, federal court.
How a Social Security Disability Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ Can Serve You
As Scottsdale Social Security disability lawyers, we take great care to ensure that you get the benefits you need. Here are some ways we may assist with your case:
- Determining Your Eligibility & Explaining Qualifications: We conduct a comprehensive assessment of your circumstances to evaluate your eligibility for SSDI, SSI, or other relevant programs. We explain the requirements and qualifications carefully to ensure that you fully understand your options. If questions or issues arise during the application process, we handle them promptly and effectively.
- Preparing and Submitting Your Application: Our team verifies that your application contains all requisite information and presents the strongest case, reducing the risk of delays or denials. We gather, organize, and present the financial and medical documentation needed to substantiate your disability and eligibility for benefits.
- Calculating Your Benefits: Your attorney can estimate the benefits you’re entitled to and make sure you know exactly what to expect, with no detail overlooked.
- Pursuing Reconsideration and Appeals: Our team of attorneys is highly skilled in navigating the appeals process, from submitting reconsideration requests to providing expert representation throughout the process. If your case necessitates a hearing or court appearance, our lawyers ensure comprehensive preparation and deliver persuasive advocacy on your behalf.
- Advocating for Your Best Interests: Throughout the entirety of the process, your Social Security disability attorney in Scottsdale, AZ, will keep you informed, address any questions you may have, and offer tailored support. Our goal is to provide a seamless experience while ensuring a favorable outcome for you.
Helping people with Social Security disability claims is what we do. When you work with a seasoned Social Security disability lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, from Pekas Smith, you’re choosing a partner committed to your success.
Why Choose Us for Your Disability Case?
Pekas Smith Disability Attorneys has focused on Arizona disability claims for over 30 years. Having secured benefits for residents in the Scottsdale area and beyond, we know what it takes to win. When you work with one of our expert attorneys, we guarantee:
- In-depth knowledge of Social Security laws and procedures.
- Support through every step of the process, from applications to appeals.
- Local expertise in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and throughout Arizona
We are skilled and experienced attorneys, handling your entire case with a customized legal strategy and diligent case preparation. Throughout your SSD case, we prioritize communication and support. We make our representation convenient by offering meetings in person and virtually.
We serve residents in the Scottsdale area and beyond, and our local presence means we know exactly what to expect in Arizona hearing offices and courtrooms. Expect us to provide personalized service with your success as our goal.
Our Offices
We are located at 3030 North 3rd St., Suite 650, Phoenix, Arizona, 85012. Our offices are in Midtown Phoenix, near St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center and the Phoenix Country Club. We are accessible by car and public transit, including rail and bus. Parking is available.
Our goal is to make our services accessible to everyone. We can discuss your case over the phone or via video call.
Free Consultation With a Social Security Disability Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
Get started today with a free consultation with an Arizona Social Security Disability lawyer at Pekas Smith Disability Attorneys. Whether you’re applying for the first time or appealing a denial, we’re here to fight for the benefits you deserve.
Contact us online, call 602.962.2818, or visit our offices for a free consultation. Let’s take the next step together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I qualify for Social Security disability benefits?
To qualify for benefits, you must prove that you have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. This means your condition must significantly impair your ability to perform basic work activities and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. To demonstrate your eligibility, it’s crucial to prepare thorough medical documentation from your healthcare providers, detailing the diagnosis, treatment history, and how your condition impacts your daily life and work capabilities.
In addition to your medical condition, the SSA takes into account your work history. To qualify for SSDI, you typically need to have worked a certain number of years and paid Social Security taxes. If you haven’t worked long enough, you might still qualify for SSI, which is based on financial need rather than work history. The SSA uses a strict set of guidelines to evaluate your claim, so being organized and comprehensive in your application is key. Working with an expert Social Security disability lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, can greatly increase your chances of approval.
What benefits are available under the SSDI and SSI programs?
Under SSDI, eligible individuals can receive monthly cash benefits that replace a portion of their previous income lost due to a disabling condition, which can be a godsend for those who have built a solid work record before becoming disabled. Additionally, after a certain period of receiving SSDI benefits, individuals may become eligible for Medicare, a crucial health coverage option that can help manage medical expenses.
On the other hand, SSI offers cash benefits to help meet basic food, shelter, and living expenses, as well as potential eligibility for Medicaid, which provides necessary medical coverage for low-income beneficiaries. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in determining which program is best suited for one’s unique financial and medical circumstances.
A Social Security disability lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, from our law firm will guide clients through the application and appeals process to secure benefits.
How can a Scottsdale disability lawyer help with an appeal?
When it comes to navigating the complexities of disability claims and appeals, having a knowledgeable disability lawyer by your side can be invaluable. These professionals not only understand the intricate legal landscape but also have experience in engaging with the SSA and other relevant entities. A Scottsdale disability lawyer can help dissect the reasons for your initial denial, gather necessary medical records and evidence, and craft a compelling case that highlights your unique circumstances.
A disability lawyer can also guide you through the often overwhelming paperwork and deadlines involved in the appeals process. They can help ensure that all documentation is submitted correctly and on time, reducing the odds of additional delays or complications. Ultimately, having a disability lawyer can significantly improve your chances of a successful appeal, making it a wise choice for anyone looking to secure the benefits they deserve.
One of our Social Security disability lawyers will review your case details and help you understand the reasons for the denial, ensuring you have a clear path forward.
How long does it take to receive disability benefits?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, as the timeline can vary significantly based on several factors. On average, the initial application process takes about 3 to 6 months. However, this timeframe can be longer if your case requires additional medical evidence or if there are complex issues that need to be resolved. During this period, the SSA evaluates not only whether you meet the medical criteria for disability but also whether you’re eligible under other guidelines, such as work history and income levels.
If your initial claim is denied—a common outcome, with approximately 70% of applications facing rejection on the first try—the road to benefits can get even longer. You might then enter the appeals process, which can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years or more, depending on the backlog in your local SSA office and other variables.
Having a Social Security disability lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, on your side significantly increases your chances of approval. An experienced lawyer can help you avoid mistakes, meet deadlines, and present a strong case.
Can I work while receiving Social Security disability benefits?
The Social Security Administration offers a mechanism called the Trial Work Period (TWP), which allows you to test your ability to work without jeopardizing your benefits. During this period, you can earn income while still receiving your disability benefits. We can help you understand the rules and how they apply to your case.
What types of disabilities qualify for Social Security benefits?
The Social Security Administration has specific criteria for what constitutes a qualifying disability. Primarily, these disabilities fall under two categories: physical and mental impairments. Physical disabilities might include conditions that severely limit one’s ability to perform basic tasks, such as chronic back pain, heart disease, or conditions like multiple sclerosis. On the other hand, mental disabilities can encompass a wide range of issues such as severe depression, anxiety disorders, or developmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder. It’s important to note that simply having a condition isn’t enough; the SSA requires that these disabilities significantly hinder your ability to work and carry out daily activities.
There are many more conditions listed. A Social Security disability lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, can assist you with determining qualifications. We can review your situation and advise whether it meets the SSA’s definition of disability.
Can I receive both SSDI and SSI in Scottsdale?
Yes, you can qualify for both programs under certain circumstances. SSDI is designed for individuals who have a work history and have paid Social Security taxes, while SSI assists those with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. This dual eligibility typically occurs when a person qualifies for SSDI based on their work record and also meets specific financial criteria that enable them to receive SSI benefits. An SSD lawyer in Scottsdale can help determine your eligibility for both programs.
