Social Security Disability Attorney in Atlanta

A devastating work injury wasn’t in your plans, and odds are it might have come at a time when you weren’t financially prepared to be either temporarily or permanently out of work. Securing Social Security Disability Insurance can be a hard, daunting process, which is why you need an expert attorney on your side. At Cruz & Associates, we have over 30 years of knowledge and experience serving clients looking to obtain Social Security disability benefits. Our team of Social Security disability attorneys have what it takes to represent your disability case and help you get the benefits you deserve.

What Is Social Security Disability?

Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is a federal program funded by taxes in the United States, which provides monthly benefits to those who are unable to work due to a medical disability. Whether these disabilities are the result of a workplace injury or a medical condition, the benefits provided by the Social Security Administration help individuals cover the costs of bills and take care of their families when they are unable to work.

Qualifying for SSI and SSDI

SSDI is distinct from Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, in that SSI does not require a past job that paid Social Security taxes. Although it has the same medical requirements as SSDI, SSI is usually designated for disabled adults and children who have limited income.

Qualifying for Social Security disability benefits can be a long process and it requires you to meet certain criteria in order to receive the benefits. Our Atlanta team of attorneys have extensive experience handling disability claims for people just like you. Schedule a free consultation with us to see if you qualify for benefits.

Overview of Qualifications

Below are the most common qualifications needed in order to receive Social Security disability benefits:

• You must have worked at least five years in the last decade
• You must have worked recently enough as considered by the U.S. government
• You must have paid Social Security taxes on your past earnings
• You are unable to do the work you did before or perform a new job due to your medical condition
• Your medical condition has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year
• You have earned a monthly income this year under the Social Security Limit
• Your condition is found on the “disabling conditions” list by Social Security
• You have been diagnosed with a severe disease that is part of the Compassionate Allowances list
• You are considered a part of the special provisions category which includes low vision, disabled children, widowers, and wounded warriors

Although these are the basic requirements needed to qualify for SSDI, we encourage you to reach out to us even if you do not meet all of these criteria. SSI varies slightly from these qualifications as well, and other considerations must be met for both of these programs. There are also special cases that can still receive benefits without meeting these qualifications, and our Cruz & Associates attorneys can help you see if your case is one of these exceptions.

Conditions that Qualify You for SSI and SSDI Benefits

Below are a list of medical conditions that could qualify you for SSI and SSDI benefits:

• Musculoskeletal disorders
• Cardiovascular conditions
• Senses and speech problems (such as vision and hearing loss)
• Respiratory illnesses
• Neurological disorders
• Certain mental disorders
• Autoimmune disorders
• Skin disorders
• Digestive tract issues
• Kidney disease
• Cancers
• Blood disorders

There are various levels of severity to each of these medical conditions. Having one of these medical problems does not necessarily automatically qualify you for Social Security disability benefits. To increase your chances of winning the disability case and receiving the benefits you and your family need, contact a Social Security disability attorney today.

Why a Disability Attorney Is Important for SSDI & SSI

Social Security disability cases are often denied by the Social Security Administration at first. If you can no longer work to provide for your family, make sure to contact an attorney that has a deep understanding of the SSDI and SSI system. Hiring the right attorney will make a big difference when it comes to getting the compensation you need to keep up with your normal life after a case is denied.

If you are disabled and can’t perform your work anymore, you are eligible for disability benefits. We’ll help you navigate the appeal process to get the health care and financial benefits you need to keep supporting your family while you are out of work. Our Atlanta team fights for the rights of workers in Fulton County, Gwinnett County, and Cobb County. Contact Cruz & Associates at (404) 444-1111 for more information on whether you qualify for benefits.