4.2 Google RatedAre you seeking Social Security disability benefits? Our team at Pekas Smith is here to help. With the support and guidance of an experienced Social Security disability lawyer in Tucson, AZ, you can overcome the challenges of the complex disability system.
Our team, with over 30 years of experience and more than 10,000 successful cases, is committed to providing skilled and compassionate representation at every stage of your claim. Whether you’re filing your first application, appealing a denial, or preparing for a hearing, our Tucson team is ready to assist. Message us now to get a free case consultation today.
Applying for Social Security Disability Programs
Social Security programs for disabilities offer financial support to individuals who cannot work due to a qualifying medical condition. These benefits are distributed through two primary programs, each tailored to address different needs and circumstances:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): If you’ve earned sufficient work credits and are now facing a disabling condition that prevents you from maintaining employment, SSDI may provide monthly benefits. This program is designed to help you cover essential living expenses when your ability to work has been compromised.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): It is a need-based program that assists people with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. SSI benefits extend to adults and children with disabilities, ensuring that even those who have not had the opportunity to build a work record can access financial support.
A Pekas Smith Social Security disability lawyer in Tucson, AZ, can help guide and advocate for you through every stage of your claim. Our expert legal team is skilled at interpreting eligibility requirements, preparing comprehensive applications, and representing clients during appeals or hearings.
The Cases We Handle
Our Social Security disability lawyers handle several types of disability cases in Tucson and the surrounding area:
Social Security Disability Insurance
When you can’t work because of a disability, Social Security Disability Insurance may provide cash payments. Benefits are paid based on a qualifying work history and a medical condition that prevents working.
Whether you are preparing to file your case or need to file an appeal, we can assist you. A Social Security disability lawyer in Tucson, AZ, can pursue your case in full and even represent you in federal court.
Supplemental Security Income
Supplemental Security Income can help if you have limited income and limited resources. A work history isn’t required to qualify for SSI. Our lawyers want you to get your benefits in full and quickly. In addition to cash payments, you may qualify for Medicaid—the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS).
Disabled Adult Child (DAC)
If you are disabled as a young adult, you may not have enough of a work history to qualify for SSDI payments based on your own record. You may claim benefits through the Disabled Adult Child program from a parent’s work history.
A Social Security disability lawyer in Tucson, AZ, from our law firm understands the qualification requirements and what to do to claim your benefits.
Disabled Widow and Widower’s Insurance Benefits (DWB)
When you are disabled, you may depend on a working spouse for support. If they pass away, you might need financial help. If so, you could be eligible to receive Disabled Widow Insurance Benefits based on your spouse’s earnings record.
Qualification for DWIB depends on your age and the number of years since your spouse’s death. A divorced spouse may also qualify for benefits. We can help you throughout the application process.
Why Choose Our Tucson Social Security Disability Lawyers?
At Pekas Smith, we understand that every case is unique. Our Tucson disability lawyers provide personalized service and unwavering support to ensure you have the best chance of success.
Here are some reasons to choose our legal team for your disability case:
- Focus on Disability Cases: Disability law is what we do. Our team understands medical evidence and how to meet legal standards of proof. You need your benefits so we don’t give up.
- Decades of Experience: Over three decades of proven success in handling SSDI and SSI claims—more than 10,000 claims handled. We are prepared to address any issue or detail that arises.
- Comprehensive Representation: From initial applications to federal court appeals, we handle it all. We provide complete legal services and pursue all opportunities and avenues for you to receive your benefits.
- Local Expertise: Our team is familiar with local hearing offices and procedures. We can meet in person in Tucson, by phone, or by video chat. We strive to make our services as accessible as possible.
We are a Tucson team. With local roots, we know what to expect in local hearings and court appearances.
How Our Social Security Disability Lawyers Serve Tucson Clients
You have worked hard, and you should be able to count on disability benefits to support you and your family if you need them. The system exists to help provide financial aid to people who are unable to work.
Working with our Tucson disability lawyers gives you professional representation as you seek the benefits that are so important to you. From start to finish, we’re dedicated to making the disability process as smooth as possible. We can help with:
- Determining Eligibility: We review your case and explain the requirements for SSDI, SSI, or other benefits.
- Preparing and Filing Applications: Our team ensures your application is complete, accurate, and supported by strong medical evidence.
- Appealing Denials: If your claim is denied, we handle every step of the appeals process, including representing you at hearings.
- Advocating for Your Rights: We fight for your best interests at every stage, keeping you informed and supported.
Our disability attorneys are an experienced team that specializes in these types of cases. They know what makes a case successful and what obstacles prevent people from receiving their benefits.
Consultations Available – Talk to a Lawyer Now
Talk to a Tucson SSD lawyer today. Contact the team at Pekas Smith Disability Attorneys to learn about your options, get answers to your questions, and begin today.
See how we have helped so many people get the payments they deserve. No matter what stage of the case you are in, we can start representing you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Social Security disability office in Tucson, AZ?
If you need to visit the Social Security office in Tucson, here’s the location:
3808 N. 1st Ave
Tucson, AZ 85719
Phone: 1 (800) 772-1213
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
To apply for Social Security disability in person, you need an appointment. You can apply online at any time.
Other locations to know are:
- Disability Determination Service (DDS): Claims representatives review applications at the Disability Determination Services offices located at 4710 South Palo Verde Road, Tucson, AZ 85714.
- Hearing Offices: Disability hearings in Tucson are held before an Administrative Law Judge at Rio Nuevo Professional Plaza, Suite 265, 201 N. Bonita Avenue.
- District Court: A Social Security Disability case may be appealed to the federal district court. In Tucson, the court is the United States District Court for the District of Arizona.
What is the definition of a disability?
In the Social Security disability system, a disability is a physical or mental condition that prevents a person from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). The condition must prevent employment for one year or more or be expected to result in death.
A wide range of physical and mental health conditions may qualify, including:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., fibromyalgia, back injuries, arthritis)
- Mental health conditions (e.g., depression, autism, post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Neurological disorders (e.g., epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy)
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Cancer
- Immune system disorders (e.g., lupus)
If your condition is not listed in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book, you may still qualify by proving its severity and impact on your ability to work. A qualified Social Security disability lawyer in Tucson, AZ, can help you prove your case.
How do you get disability benefits in Tucson, AZ?
To get disability benefits in Tucson, AZ, you must apply for them. In your application, you’ll need to explain your medical condition and report your work history. The application process involves:
- Preparation: Begin by collecting all necessary documentation, including medical records, employment history, and proof of income.
- Submission: You can apply online or in person at the Social Security office in Tucson.
- Review: The Social Security Administration will conduct a thorough review of your application to ensure it meets the fundamental eligibility criteria.
- Disability Determination: The Disability Determination Services (DDS) office will assess your medical condition to determine your eligibility for benefits.
- Decision and Appeals Process: If your claim is denied, you have the right to challenge the decision. This process may include several stages, such as reconsideration, hearings, and, if necessary, federal court proceedings.
A Social Security disability lawyer in Tucson from Pekas Smith can help gather and present the necessary documentation.
How long does it take to receive benefits?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case and whether appeals are required. The process can take as little as 3-6 months. However, if your case needs to be appealed, it will require additional time.
Working with an experienced lawyer can help minimize delays and ensure your application is processed efficiently.
What can I do if my Social Security disability claim is denied?
If your Social Security disability claim is denied, you have the right to ask for reconsideration, and you can file an appeal. You should evaluate why the claim was denied and what information may make your case successful.
The appeal process includes:
- Reconsideration: A fresh review of your application.
- Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): Presenting your case with additional evidence.
- Appeals Council: Further review if the ALJ decision is unfavorable.
- Federal Court Review: If all other appeals fail.
Our team can guide you through each step and strengthen your case for approval.
Can I work while receiving Social Security disability benefits?
The SSA offers a Trial Work Period (TWP) that allows you to test your ability to work without losing your benefits. During this period, you can earn income up to a certain limit for nine months without jeopardizing your disability payments. Consult your lawyer to understand the rules and how they apply to your situation.
Why have an attorney to apply for Social Security disability?
Many valid Social Security disability claims are denied because information is missing or unclear. A Pekas Smith Social Security disability lawyer in Tucson, AZ, understands how to present a case.
If you apply at a Social Security office, the person who takes your application is neutral. They will not be able to provide legal advice or help you strengthen your claim. Our disability attorneys are dedicated to your legal rights and interests. It’s our goal to make your case successful as early in the process as possible.
How much does Social Security disability pay in Tucson?
The amount of SSDI benefits depends on your work history and average lifetime earnings. As of 2024, the maximum monthly payment in Tucson and the state of Arizona was $4,018. SSI benefits are based on financial need, with a maximum monthly payment of $967 for individuals.
