If you cannot work and earn a living due to a disability, there is a federal program called Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD or SSDI). SSD can provide benefits to make your life easier and more comfortable. However, applying for SSD can be a complicated and time-consuming process that you might have trouble undergoing if you’re disabled.
Fortunately, an Oklahoma social security disability attorney from BDIW Law can determine if you’re eligible to receive Social Security benefits, guide you through the application process, and even file an appeal on your behalf if your application is denied.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you claim life-changing benefits.
How an Oklahoma Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help You
According to a study by the Government Accountability Office, SSD applicants who work with an advocate are three times more likely to receive benefits than those who file without help. That’s because SSD attorneys offer comprehensive legal assistance throughout the entire application process.
If you decide to hire a social security disability attorney from our team in Oklahoma, they’ll increase your chances of success by performing the following services:
Complete Your Initial SSD Application
First, your attorney can help you file your initial SSD application. Your application can be filed online, over the phone, or in person with a Social Security Administration (SSA) representative. Your lawyer must include the following documents in your application:
- Birth certificate
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status
- Military discharge papers if you served before 1968
- Tax forms from the previous year
- Medical records, test results, and other evidence of your disability from an acceptable medical source (e.g., a licensed physician or medical provider)
- Proof of any workers’ compensation benefits you’ve received
Complete Your Function Report
After filing your initial application, you’ll have to complete what’s known as a function report. This difficult report helps the SSA determine how severely your disability affects your ability to work. While it isn’t advertised as such, it is often used to discredit legitimate claims.
The function report is lengthy and asks you to describe your daily life, activities, and personal care. It also asks for additional proof of your disability from non-medical sources (e.g., family members, caregivers, employers, etc.). Unfortunately, it’s common for applicants to have their benefits denied at this stage due to vague or inconsistent answers.
If you didn’t hire a social security disability lawyer from Oklahoma to help with your initial application, you’ll need one to help with your function report. An attorney can ensure your report is filled out properly, improving your chances of receiving the benefits you need.
Appeal a Denied Application
Once your function report is complete, you’ll hear back from the SSA about whether your application for SSD has been approved or denied. If your claim is rejected, you have the right to file an appeal, but it must be submitted within 60 days of your denial.
An SSD appeals lawyer from our firm can review your rejection letter and determine which type of appeal is right for you. Depending on the reason why you were denied benefits, your attorney will advise you to file one of the following four types of appeals:
- Reconsideration
- Appeals council review
- Hearing by an administrative law judge
- Federal court review
Our Team Is Here To Assist You Every Step Of The Way.
SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYHow Much Can I Receive from Social Security Disability in Oklahoma
According to the 2022 SSA Fact Sheet, the average SSD recipient received $1,358
per month, after an adjustment for the cost of living. That said, your monthly payments will likely differ depending on your unique circumstances.
The amount of money you receive from SSD is based on the money you earned before your disability stopped you from working. The amount of money you contributed to Social Security prior to your disability will also factor into your benefits.
While we can’t promise a certain amount of benefits, we can guarantee that our social security disability attorneys can work hard to secure the financial assistance you need to make living with a disability more manageable.
Am I Eligible for SSD Benefits?
To apply for SSD benefits, you must have a condition that qualifies as a disability. The SSA will likely categorize your condition as a disability if your condition meets the following requirements:
- Prevents you from doing work or substantial gainful activities (SGA)
- Prevents you from doing work you were able to perform before you were disabled
- Prevents you from adjusting to another form of work
- Lasts for at least one year or is expected to lead to death
To receive benefits, you must also prove that you worked at a job that was covered by Social Security. If you did, the money you earned during your employment will translate into a certain amount of “work credits.” You’ll need a specific amount of credits to be eligible for benefits.
The amount of work credits required to apply for benefits depends on your age and when you were diagnosed with a disabling condition. An Oklahoma attorney can answer any questions you have about eligibility and ensure you have the proof required to apply for social security disability benefits.
How Long does the SSD Application Process Take?
According to SSA information on SSD benefits applications, it takes about three to five months, on average, to receive a decision on your application. However, your application may take longer if it takes a while to collect medical evidence or fill out your function report.
At BDIW Law, our social security lawyers have over 65 years of combined experience helping disabled individuals in Oklahoma navigate the SSD application process. They know how to complete the necessary paperwork efficiently, saving you time and energy.
Contact a Social Security Disability Lawyer Today
While there is no time limit for filing an SSDI application, getting started on your application ASAP can help you get access to the benefits you need sooner rather than later. To make sure your application process is as speedy as possible, you’ll want to work with an experienced lawyer.
An Oklahoma social security disability attorney from BDIW Law can help you file your application correctly and promptly. Their assistance will give you the best chance possible of getting the financial support you need to make up for your lack of earnings. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out if we can help you.
