Wilmington Social Security Disability Lawyer

Wilmington Social Security Disability Lawyer

Most people don't anticipate suffering a sudden injury or struggling with an illness that leaves them disabled, unable to work, and unable to provide for themselves and their families. It's not something that most people think about often – until it happens. When it does, it can turn your whole world upside down. After all, when you're ill or injured, life keeps rolling along regardless. Bills keep arriving. Medical treatment is needed. Food still needs to be put on the table. Life still needs to be lived. It can be a lot to process, to say the very least.

If you live in the Wilmington area and you find yourself in this situation – you should know first and foremost that you aren’t alone. It may feel that way, but rest assured, there is help available. Those who are unable to work due to a physical or mental illness may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits – benefits that can help you to pay your bills and provide for yourself and your family.

At The Clauson Law Firm, a talented team of Wilmington disability lawyers is ready and waiting to help answer that question and to start you on the path toward a better and brighter chapter ahead.

What are Social Security Disability Benefits?

Prior to understanding why hiring a disability lawyer is important, it can be helpful to understand exactly what disability benefits are, and how you qualify to receive them. Social Security Disability Insurance (or SSDI, for short) is an insurance program run by the Social Security Administration of the United States Government. Throughout their employment history, many employees "pay into" the Social Security system, which later makes them eligible to receive monthly benefits if they have a qualifying disability.

SSDI benefits are often confused with but should be distinguished from, Supplemental Security Insurance (or SSI) benefits. Unlike SSDI benefits, which can be received by disabled individuals regardless of income level, SSI benefits are only available to those who are below a certain income threshold established by the government, and who do not qualify for SSDI.

 Here are a few important things to know about qualifying for SSDI benefits:

• You must have a “qualifying” disability – either physical or mental, that restricts your ability to be employed and gainfully earn an income. This means that the disability must have lasted for 12 months or more, or be permanent in nature.
• The Social Security Administration has published what is often referred to as a “Blue Book” of medical conditions that will typically qualify individuals to receive SSDI benefits.
• You must have earned enough “work credits” during the course of your employment to qualify for receipt of benefits. This essentially means that you must have worked long enough, and paid into the system for a time long enough (as determined by the government) to qualify.
• If and when you are approved for benefits, there will typically be a five-month waiting period before the time compensation begins to be paid. The amount of benefits paid will often depend upon your income record and should be discussed in detail with an attorney who knows and understands the law.

Knowing the basics of what the benefits are is only part of the puzzle, however. The next question is – how do you apply?

How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?

Regardless of whether you are seeking SSDI or SSI benefits, completing your application correctly and thoroughly will be important. Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind:

• Gather important information: As with any legal matter, gathering the necessary information to put your best foot forward is important. You may want to consult with your attorney about what information you need for your case specifically, but generally, information like medical records, employment history, tax returns, and income statements will be helpful in the process.
• Complete the application with the assistance of your attorney: Attempting to complete the application alone is not advised. You don’t want to overlook something important that may delay the process longer than necessary. Completing the application with a knowledgeable and experienced attorney is always advised.
• Be patient: Remember that sometimes, legal processes can be time-consuming, and they often last longer than you may expect. Try to remain patient, stay informed, and continue to seek the treatment you need as you await a decision on your application.

It’s also important to remember that many applicants, whether they are applying for SSDI or SSI benefits, are frequently denied the first time. You may have to file an appeal – and that is normal. The right attorney will be able to guide you through that process, and together, you can fight for the benefits you deserve.

Why Hire a Disability Lawyer?

In any legal matter, you always have the option to represent yourself. As a result, some people do find themselves wondering whether or not they should do so. Often, people assume that by representing themselves, they may be able to save money they would otherwise spend on hiring an attorney. While this is an understandable assumption, it’s very often an incorrect one.

The truth is that the law is complex. Any legal matter is full of nuances and seemingly small distinctions that can ultimately make a big difference. When you represent yourself, you might overlook some of these finer points – and cost yourself far more than you thought you would save. Hiring an attorney ensures that you don't overlook the opportunity to assert important rights you may have and that you increase your chances of receiving the maximum amount of benefits you deserve.

The Clauson Law Firm – Wilmington Disability Lawyers

If you are disabled and believe that you may be entitled to disability benefits, there’s no day like today to begin moving forward with that process. A knowledgeable and experienced legal team will be able to listen to you, assess your particular circumstances, and advise you as to the best path forward as you seek the benefits that you need and deserve. At The Clauson Law Firm, our team of Wilmington disability lawyers is ready to do exactly that. Our talented legal team has helped countless clients through this process – and we would be honored to help you too. Let us focus on the legal matters, so you can focus on what’s most important – your recovery, and enjoying life with those you love. Give us a call today. We look forward to speaking with you soon.