The Social Security system offers two benefit programs for disabled individuals. Our experienced disability attorney can help you determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements for either. Attorney Phillip M. Hendry has helped numerous Bossier, Louisiana, residents obtain Social Security disability benefits.

Disability benefits go beyond the Social Security pension many people receive when they reach retirement age. Disability benefits are provided to individuals of any age who become disabled and can no longer effectively support themselves. SSI provides payments to people of very low income and those who have never worked or never paid into the Social Security system. Those payments are capped at a lower amount than SSDI.

The application process for SSDI is complicated and can be frustrating. There are many pitfalls that can disqualify an unwary applicant. Our skilled Social Security disability attorney understands those pitfalls and what an applicant can do to avoid them.

Are You Eligible for Social Security Disability Payments?

The Social Security Administration looks at many factors to determine whether you qualify for benefits. Attorney Phillip M. Hendry understands what it takes to qualify. Here are some the questions you’ll answer as you go through the application process:

Do you have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI?

To qualify for SSDI benefits, your work history must show that you earned a minimum number of work credits in the years before you became disabled. Most workers need 40 (fewer for younger workers). Working regularly, you can earn up to four each year.

Are you currently working?

If you’re working when you apply, your average monthly income has to be below a certain amount.

Is your condition on the Social Security Administration’s official list of impairments?

The Social Security Administration maintains a list of disabling impairments. To qualify, your condition must be on the list or must be considered at least as severe as the conditions on the list. Common ailments on the list include:

  • Back or neck issues
  • Emotional and mental health issues including depression and anxiety
  • Arthritis
  • Cancer
  • Heart and lung conditions
  • Gastrointestinal issues

Is your condition considered severe?

To qualify for SSDI payments, your condition must interfere with your ability to support yourself. We will help you determine if the Social Security Administration is likely to recognize your medical issues as severe.

How long has your condition prevented you from working?

If you have not been able to work for twelve months, or your doctors expect that your condition will last at least twelve months, you may qualify for Social Security disability payments.

Can you perform a job you used to do?

If you can no longer perform your current work, the Social Security Administration will consider whether it is possible for you to perform in a job you held before.

Can you do any other work?

The Social Security Administration will evaluate your medical issues, physical and mental condition, work history, education, and age to determine if you can do other work.

The Social Security Disability Application Process

Hiring our Social Security disability attorney can be your smartest step in maximizing your chance of qualifying for benefits. The Social Security system is intimidating. The application for disability benefits is complex, especially if you have multiple medical issues and providers. If you’re filing on your own, understand that the Social Security Administration denies most first-time applications. Before they receive any benefits, many people have to go through a long, drawn-out appeals process, and even then, not all appeals will result in an award of benefits.

You won’t have to pay any fees upfront to your Bossier City Social Security disability attorney. If the SSA approves your application, your disability benefits award will include a lump sum payment for the months your application was pending. Our fee will be paid from that lump sum award. If your application is not successful, we receive no fee.

Take Advantage of an Experienced Bossier City Social Security Disability Attorney

Your chances of receiving approval for Social Security disability improve if you have a strong and knowledgeable advocate who understands the system and has shepherded hundred of claimants successfully through the application and appeals processes. Bossier City Social Security disability attorney Phillip M. Hendry will help you evaluate your qualifications for disability payments, assist you in submitting your application, and represent you through the appeals process if necessary.