You’ve worked hard for decades. Paid your taxes. Always did what your boss asked. And now, you’re hurt, and you think it’s time for a little bit of your hard work to come back to you. The Norfolk-area Social Security Disability attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman agree, and we’re willing to fight to get you the Social Security Disability Insurance you’re entitled to as an injured worker who’s paid into the Social Security system.
The SSDI process is complicated, and you shouldn’t try to navigate it on your own. Kalfus & Nachman can give you the legal representation you need to maximize your chances at the benefits you deserve.
SSDI Eligibility
The first step in getting your SSDI benefits is establishing your eligibility. You are eligible for SSDI if you have a qualifying disability, which is a physical or mental impairment that is expected to result in death or that has lasted or is expected to last 12 straight months. The Social Security disability attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman will help you determine if you’re eligible.
The SSDI Application
If you’ve suffered a personal injury that renders you eligible for SSDI benefits, you can then file an application with the Social Security Administration. You can file online or at your local Social Security office. Whichever route you decide to take, you should allow the experienced Social Security disability attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman assist you with this complicated application. It will enhance your chances.
The SSDI Appeal
Because the application process is so complicated, many clients are initially denied by the federal government. This is common and does not mean your case is closed. Many applicants are denied because they do not provide sufficient medical documentation for their injuries or make a mistake on the application.
You can appeal, and the Social Security disability attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman can help with the appeals process. However, time is of the essence. You only have 60 days after the initial denial to file your appeal.
There are four stages to the appeals process:
- Reconsideration
- Administrative law judge hearing
- Appeals Council review
- Federal Court law suit
In reconsideration, a SSA agent who did not participate in the original decision will review your case. It helps to have an attorney experienced in Social Security disability cases prepare your appeal.
If this fails, you have the right to ask an administrative law judge to review and overturn the decisions made at the previous two stages. Usually this hearing is held within 75 miles of your home. You should appear at this hearing, as it will greatly increase your chances of winning.
The next option is to ask the Social Security Appeals Council to review your case. They can agree to review your case, deny review or send your case back to the administrative law judge for further consideration.
Finally, if all else fails the Social Security disability attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman can file a lawsuit in federal district court on your behalf. This is your last appeal option.
If you live in the Norfolk, Newport News or Roanoke, VA areas and you want experienced Social Security disability attorneys on your side when you file for SSDI benefits, please contact Kalfus & Nachman Attorneys at Law today to schedule your free consultation.
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