Alameda Social Security Disability Lawyers

Being unable to work due to an injury or illness can make life difficult for you and your loved ones. Thankfully, many people who can’t work in California are eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits through the federal government, but getting approved for these benefits isn’t always easy.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict requirements for approving applications, and it’s common for valid applications to get denied on technicalities. At Berg Injury Lawyers, our Alameda Social Security Disability lawyers know how to maximize our clients’ chances of getting their claims approved on the first try. We can also help you appeal the SSA’s decision if your claim has already been denied.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We have the experience, knowledge, and resources to help you get the benefits you deserve.

SSD Eligibility Criteria

To receive SSD benefits, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. These requirements include:

  • Qualifying Medical Conditions: You must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The SSA has a list of conditions that automatically qualify, but other conditions may also be eligible if they significantly limit your ability to work. A free consultation with our team can help you determine if you qualify.
  • Work Credits Required for SSDI: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available to those who have earned enough work credits through their employment. Typically, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least five of the last 10 years before becoming disabled.
  • Income Requirements for SSI: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is based on financial need. To qualify, you must have limited income and financial resources, regardless of your work history. Typically, adults and children are eligible for SSI if they have little to no income and resources and are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older (in the case of adults).

Our SSDI lawyers can review your specific case to determine if you’re eligible for SSD benefits and then build a strong application that maximizes your chances of approval.

Common Reasons SSD Claims Are Denied

Unfortunately, many SSD claims are denied initially by the SSA. Some common reasons include:

  • Insufficient Medical Documentation: Without adequate medical evidence proving your disability, the SSA may deny your claim. This is why detailed and up-to-date medical records are essential.
  • Failure to Meet Work Credit Requirements: If you haven’t worked long enough or recently enough to earn the required work credits, your SSDI claim may be denied.
  • Application Errors or Missing Information: Incomplete or incorrect information on your application can lead to a denial. This can include missing forms, incorrect dates, or incomplete descriptions of your condition.

Thankfully, a denial isn’t the end of the road. The SSA allows applicants to appeal denials, and many people whose applications are initially denied ultimately end up winning their appeals and receiving benefits.

How Our Alameda SSD Lawyers Help

At Berg Injury Lawyers, we understand how challenging it can be to navigate the SSD process. Our Alameda SSD attorneys can assist with the following:

  • Initial SSD Application Support: We help you complete and submit your initial application, ensuring all necessary information is included.
  • Gathering Medical Evidence and Documentation: Our team works closely with your healthcare providers to gather comprehensive medical records that support your claim.
  • Appeals for Denied Claims: If your initial claim is denied, we can guide you through the appeals process, which may involve requesting reconsideration or filing a lawsuit.
  • Representation at SSD Hearings: We represent you at SSD hearings, presenting evidence and making arguments to improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Throughout the process, you’ll get peace of mind knowing your application or appeal is in good hands. We know how important it is for our clients to get approved for SSD benefits when they are unable to earn a living due to their injury or illness, and we work hard to maximize their chances of success.

Benefits of Filing an SSD Claim

Winning your SSD claim can provide financial stability for you and your family and access to healthcare. SSD benefits include:

  • Monthly Disability Payments: You’ll receive monthly payments to help cover your living expenses.
  • Back Pay for Missed Benefits: If your claim is approved, you may be entitled to back pay from when your application was being processed.
  • Access to Medicare/Medicaid: After receiving SSD benefits for a certain period, you may become eligible for Medicare or Medicaid, providing essential healthcare coverage.

Getting access to SSD benefits is life-changing for applicants, especially when serious illnesses or injuries make their return to work unlikely or even impossible. We understand this, and we fight hard to help our clients get the benefits they desperately need.

Why Choose Our Alameda SSDI Lawyers?

Selecting the right legal representation can significantly affect the outcome of your SSD claim. Here’s why Berg Injury Lawyers is the right choice if you’re applying for SSD benefits for the first time or want to appeal the SSA’s denial of your application:

  • Local Expertise with the Alameda SSD System: We have a deep understanding of the local SSD process and can confidently guide you through each step.
  • Compassionate and Client-Focused Representation: We are committed to providing personalized service and support, treating every client with respect and empathy.
  • Proven Track Record of Success in SSD Claims: Our team has a history of successfully helping clients secure the benefits they deserve. We will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact Our Alameda Social Security Disability Lawyers Today

At Berg Injury Lawyers, we take our clients’ SSD applications personally. When people pay into the SSA for years with every paycheck they earn, they deserve benefits if they later suffer from an injury or illness that prevents them from working and providing for themselves and their loved ones. Trust our decades of experience and long track record of success with SSD benefits applications. It’s our goal to see you and your family thrive with the benefits you’re entitled to receive through every paycheck you’ve earned. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help.