At Cruz & Associates, we understand how overwhelming it can be to figure out the logistics of filing a disability claim while also trying to adjust to life after your accident. We’re here to help you through the process and guide you through the paperwork.
Having a partner to help you navigate the disability application process and increase your chances of receiving disability benefits is one of the many reasons we recommend hiring a disability benefits attorney. If you’ve already applied for disability insurance and benefits and been denied, this isn’t uncommon. Hiring an attorney is the next step you should take to obtain those benefits.
Applying for disability insurance provides the benefit of financial relief to employees who suffer catastrophic injuries that permanently disable them.
An injured employee who develops a permanent disability may be unable to return to their previous job or work in any capacity. In these situations, disability benefits may cover what workers’ compensation cannot.
The two benefit programs also tend to run in tandem. If you or a loved one has experienced a life-changing disability, the Atlanta legal team at Cruz & Associates can help you obtain the disability benefits you deserve.
The disability benefits process
The initial application is simple with the information you’ll provide to the Social Security Administration. You can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) .
Complete and submit your application online at ssa.gov , by phone, or in person at your local SSA office. After you file a disability claim, it will be reviewed and then sent to the Disability Determination Services office in Georgia. Your response will be mailed to you, but you can check the status in your personal online account.
You have the right to appeal a denial within 60 days. This will involve reconsideration, a hearing, and two levels of review. Having a disability attorney on your side can help you navigate this part of the process.
Applying for disability insurance with Cruz & Associates
The average acceptance rate for initial applications is less than 25%, so don’t be alarmed if this is the response you get. When you meet with Cruz & Associates to file a disability claim, your experienced attorney will work to secure your benefits in several effective ways.
We’ll begin by evaluating your situation and the reasoning behind your disability to build your case, before ensuring your disability qualifies as a physical or mental disability under Georgia’s disability classifications.
Once your disability is determined to qualify, your attorney will obtain medical records of the treatments you have received to use as evidence to strengthen your case.
In addition to your medical records, other documentation, such as accident reports, work history, and educational information, is collected to further build your case. Once your case has the necessary evidence, your Cruz & Associates representative will use this information to help you file a disability claim.
Qualifications
There are several requirements you must meet. The Social Security Administration provides a checklist called the Adult Disability Checklist that you can review. Your work history will be an important factor, so be sure to prepare that information as well.
Below is a list of medical conditions that could qualify for disability; however, these conditions almost never automatically qualify you for disability insurance benefits. Your attorney will evaluate the severity of your medical condition to ensure there is a valid case for obtaining the benefits to which you are entitled.
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Sensory and speech problems (such as vision and hearing loss)
- Respiratory diseases
- Neurological disorders
- Certain mental disorders
- Autoimmune disorders
- Skin disorders
- Digestive tract problems
- Kidney disease
- Cancer
- Blood disorders
If your medical condition isn’t listed above, that doesn’t mean you have no chance of being approved after filing a disability claim. Your attorney at Cruz & Associates will work diligently to build your application quickly and smoothly to obtain the benefits your family needs, and that includes discussing whether we believe you have a valid claim during your initial consultation.
Our bilingual attorneys have years of knowledge and experience applying for disability benefits with the Social Security Administration. So, if you don’t see your medical condition listed above but are still unable to work due to your disability, call our Atlanta law office and let our team evaluate your unique situation after filing a disability claim.
Contact Cruz & Associates for a free consultation today.
At Cruz & Associates, we understand the importance of obtaining disability benefits when you are unable to work due to an injury or disability. If you have filed a disability claim and the state has denied it, or if you are just beginning to consider filing a disability claim, working with an experienced attorney can increase your chances of obtaining the benefits your family needs.
Hiring an Atlanta disability benefits attorney can dramatically increase your chances of a successful disability claim. Our team has over 30 years of experience handling disability and other workers’ compensation cases in Georgia.
Complete this online form or call (404) 444-1111 today for a free initial consultation to see how we can help you get the benefits you deserve.
