Chambersburg, PA Social Security Disability (SSDI) Lawyer

Life can be unpredictable. You might be working hard to further your career and plan for retirement someday, but you are badly injured in an accident or diagnosed with a serious, long-term illness that prevents you from working. Not only must you come to terms with how your life and possibly your body have changed, but you must figure out how to make ends meet financially.

One option is to file a claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. These benefits may be available for those whose physical or psychological condition constitutes a disability within the definition set by federal law. On top of that, your condition should leave you unable to work. Further still, you must have a long enough history of working to qualify for SSDI benefits. Our team can help you fill out your application so mistakes and errors are avoided, increasing your odds of approval. The application process can be challenging, and a lot of detailed information is required, which is why you need an experienced attorney on your side.

Receive a private, free evaluation of your case from our Social Security disability attorneys at Young, Marr, Mallis & Associates when you call (215) 515-2954.

Why You Might Need SSDI Benefits in Chambersburg, PA

SSDI benefits may be available for those who cannot work because of a disability. As described in more detail below, a disability may be a physical or psychological condition that prevents someone from performing almost any form of substantial work. If you are unsure whether you qualify for or even need SSDI benefits, consider the following factors.

First, were you recently injured in an accident? Did you develop a disability because of an illness or genetic abnormality? Maybe you are experiencing a significant psychological disorder that makes it almost impossible to work. If any of these sound like your current situation, you might want to speak to an attorney about SSDI benefits.

Next, you should consider your current financial resources. Some people are fortunate and have the resources to support themselves without working. Perhaps you have a large savings, or you have valuable assets you can liquidate to support yourself. Alternatively, maybe you have family who can help you. If you are largely on your own and have few resources to support yourself, filing for SSDI benefits might be the way to go.

How to Apply for SSDI Benefits in Chambersburg, PA

Your application may be submitted online, which may help you get a faster response, as the SSA may receive the application instantaneously. However, doing things online does not always work for everyone. Our team can help you arrange a meeting with an SSA agent in person or over the phone.

The application is not small, and our Social Security disability attorneys need a lot of detailed information about you, your condition, your work, and why you should be approved for SSDI benefits. First, we need personal information like your Social Security number, address, and contact information. Second, we need your banking information. If you are approved for benefits, the SSA may deposit funds directly into your bank account. Next, we need extensive details about your disability, the doctors who treated you, and your overall diagnosis and prognosis. Finally, we need details about your work history and how much money you earned before you became disabled. This is incredibly important, as your benefits may be based on your previous income.

Eligibility Requirements for SSDI Benefits in Chambersburg, PA

As mentioned before, not everyone with an injury or medical condition may be eligible for SSDI benefits, even if their condition prevents them from working. A specific set of criteria must be met for your SSDI application to be approved.

Disability

First, we need to prove that you have a disability. The definition of a disability for SSDI purposes can be found under 20 C.F.R. § 404.1505(a). This federal law states that a disability must be a physical or mental condition that prevents you from doing “substantial gainful activity” and is expected to persist for no less than 12 months or end in death.

This definition precludes conditions that might prevent someone from working, but only for a short while. For example, you might be unable to work for a few months after a bad car accident, but if you are expected to recover within a few months, you may not be eligible for SSDI benefits.

If you are unsure whether your condition qualifies as a disability, there is a list of impairments and conditions that meet the federal definition of a disability for SSDI purposes. If your condition is on this list, we have one less thing to worry about. If your condition is not on the list, you might still qualify, but we need to show how your condition is a disability and qualifies you for SSDI benefits.

Work History

Next, we need to focus on your history of working. Only people with a sufficient history of working, earning an income, and paying taxes into Social Security may qualify for SSDI benefits. According to the SSA, applicants must have a certain number of work credits to qualify. Generally, adults need 40 credits, and 20 of them must have been earned in the last decade. Younger people might be able to qualify with fewer credits, but you should consult an attorney first.

Substantial Gainful Activity

One of the most important components of qualifying for SSDI benefits is your inability to work. Under § 404.1572, work is defined as “substantial gainful activity.” However, not all work or jobs meet this definition. First, work must involve some physical or mental work or effort. Second, it must be performed for profit. Even if profit is never realized, the work may be considered gainful. Even part-time work may be considered substantial gainful activity.

Why You Should Hire a Chambersburg, PA Social Security Disability Attorney

Applying for benefits is challenging, and making mistakes that could cost you everything may be easy. It is best to work with a disability lawyer familiar with the application process. An experienced attorney should know how to navigate the application process and what information is necessary to complete your application.

Your attorney should also know what the Social Security Administration looks for when approving applications. They can help you explain your situation in a way that checks all the boxes necessary to get you the benefits you need. If your application is denied, your lawyer should be ready to appeal the denial right away.

Contact Our Chambersburg, PA Social Security Disability (SSDI) Lawyers Now

Receive a private, free evaluation of your case from our Social Security disability attorneys at Young, Marr, Mallis & Associates when you call (215) 515-2954.