When you are hurt or sick and unable to work, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can provide important financial and medical benefits. It can help replace lost wages, and after receiving SSDI for two years, you automatically qualify for Medicare.
But the application process can be confusing, and one mistake can mean a delay in receiving the benefits you need. Often, the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies applications. When that happens, our Colorado Springs Social Security Disability lawyers can help.
Our team at Marc Whitehead & Associates has over 120 years of legal experience, helping injured people get the benefits they have earned. Call now to schedule your free consultation and learn how our Colorado Springs disability lawyers can assist you.
Call or text (800) 562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
What Is Social Security Disability?
Social Security Disability provides access to medical assistance when a serious condition prevents you from working. Through SSDI or SSI, you may receive monthly income, back pay, and access to Medicare or Medicaid:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides monthly income and long-term medical benefits to people who can no longer work due to a severe, medically documented disability.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based federal program that provides monthly financial assistance to people with limited income and resources who are aged, blind, or disabled.
To qualify, your condition must be well-documented, severe, and expected to last at least one year. The Social Security Administration looks closely at your medical records, work history, age, and whether you can realistically adjust to any job.
For a free legal consultationwith a social security disability lawyer serving Colorado Springs, call (800) 562-9830
Do You Need an Attorney to File for Social Security Disability?
You are not required to hire an attorney when you apply for SSDI. However, consulting with our Colorado disability lawyers can help you understand the process and avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize your benefits.
Many first–time applicants are denied simply because they missed important documentation or filled out forms incorrectly. Some of the ways our Social Security Disability attorneys can help with your SSDI claim or denial include:
- Explaining SSA forms and requirements to ensure your application is complete and accurate
- Answering your Social Security questions and helping you understand how to file for Social Security Disability insurance
- Identifying legal and procedural errors that can support your appeal
- Gathering medical and other documentation to demonstrate the extent of your limitations
- Building your legal arguments to clearly show why you meet Social Security’s disability criteria
- Preparing you thoroughly for hearings so you know what to expect and feel confident telling your story
- Advocating for you during hearings by challenging medical and vocational witnesses, cross-examining unfavorable experts, and exposing flaws in their opinions
- Pursuing litigation when necessary to fight for the benefits you deserve
Colorado Springs Social Security Disability Lawyer Near Me (800) 562-9830
Why Are SSDI Claims Denied?
SSDI claims are often denied even when applicants are truly unable to work. Most denials come down to insufficient medical evidence or paperwork errors. Some applicants are denied because the SSA believes they can perform other work, even if that’s unrealistic given their symptoms.
Other applicants receive a denial simply for missing deadlines or failing to respond to requests. While a denial is frustrating, it’s also very common and not the end of your case. Our Social Security Disability lawyers in Colorado Springs can help you appeal your denial.
How Can You Contest an SSDI Denial?
If you’ve been denied Social Security Disability benefits, you have the right to appeal a decision they made. You have 60 days from the time you receive your denial notice to file your appeal. Our lawyers for Social Security Disability can help you take the correct steps.
The appeals process has several levels:
- First, request a reconsideration, where a new SSA reviewer evaluates your claim and any additional evidence. If your claim is again denied, your case moves to a hearing.
- At the hearing, you have the opportunity to present your story, submit updated medical records, and challenge vocational opinions before an Administrative Law Judge.
- If the Administrative Law Judge denies your claim, you can request a review by the Appeals Council.
- If your claim is once again denied, you can potentially file a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado.
Contact Our Colorado Springs Social Security Disability Attorneys
If you are eligible for Social Security Disability, it can provide you with income replacement and medical benefits when you cannot work due to an injury or illness. However, it’s easy to make mistakes during the application process, and denials of benefits are common.
Often, errors are easy to fix, and you can submit missing medical records or clarify your needs for benefits during the appeals process. Our Colorado Springs Social Security Disability attorneys can help you manage your appeal and represent you in hearings.
Since 1992, Marc Whitehead & Associates has stood up for people denied the benefits they rightfully deserve. If you are searching for a “Social Security Disability lawyer near me,” call today for your free consultation and tell us about your Social Security Disability benefits denial.