Ridgefield Social Security disability lawyerIf you’re looking for a Ridgefield Social Security disability lawyer, you’ve come to the right place. Hermann Law Group serves disabled workers in Connecticut — helping them understand their legal rights and tirelessly advocating on their behalf. We understand how overwhelming a Social Security claim can be when you’re coping with chronic illness, fatigue, and pain. We’re here to help.

Social Security Disability 101

If you have a disabling medical condition, you’ve probably considered filing for Social Security benefits. However, without help from a skilled Ridgefield Social Security disability lawyer, the system can be incredibly confusing. Here are some of the basics of Social Security law.

Social Security Disability vs. SSI

There are actually two types of Social Security disability benefits: Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). While these two programs are similar in many ways, there are some differences:

  • SSDI: You must have a certain number of work credits to qualify. Work credits are based on your quarterly earnings over the past ten years.
  • SSI: Your household income and financial resources must be below a certain threshold. Higher income families cannot receive SSI benefits.

Sometimes, you might qualify for both SSDI and SSI.

The Importance of Medical Evidence

You can’t simply win Social Security disability benefits because you experience pain. Instead, you must have “medically determinable,” severe impairments that will last at least 12 months. Typically, a condition is “medically determinable” if you have a diagnosis from a doctor that is based on your clinical examinations and testing.

Without medical evidence, it’s very difficult to win a Social Security disability claim. At Hermann Law Group, we strongly encourage our clients to seek appropriate medical care. While your Ridgefield Social Security disability lawyer might send you to a consulting doctor, the Administration tends to favor the opinions of treating doctors that have a detailed understanding of your condition and limitations. And, if you need help finding low-cost medical care, we can suggest local resources that might help.

Filing a Social Security Disability Claim

Before you file a Social Security disability application, you should spend some time organizing your thoughts and information. For example, build lists of your doctors (and their contact information) and your work experience (including dates of employment). This information will help you complete your application quickly and thoroughly. You should also think critically about your limitations. Ask yourself:

  • What do I actually do on a daily basis?
  • How often do I need a break or rest period?
  • How often do I have good days vs. bad days?
  • Do my medications cause negative side effects?
  • What hobbies or pastimes have I given up?
  • Has my mood changed because of my physical conditions?

If you notice significant problems, make sure you tell your Ridgefield Social Security disability lawyer or the Administration about them.

Once you complete an application for benefits, Social Security will investigate your claim. Based on this investigation, it will either approve or deny your SSDI or SSI benefits. Unfortunately, many legitimate claims are denied each year — resulting in a high volume of Connecticut disability appeals.

Do I Really Need a Ridgefield Social Security Disability Lawyer?

Once Social Security denies your claim, it’s typically in your best interest to speak with a Ridgefield Social Security disability lawyer. At the appeal level, you will attend a hearing with an administrative law judge (ALJ). The ALJ will review your evidence and obtain sworn testimony from both you and expert witnesses. One simple mistake might result in another denial.

At Hermann Law Group, we understand how important your Social Security disability is. We carefully review all of our clients’ files, identifying missing evidence, and supplying it to the ALJ. Also, we work with our clients, making sure they are prepared to testify. We believe that attention to detail, personalized attention, and aggressive legal representation is the key to our success.

A Ridgefield Social Security disability lawyer can also deliver something else: peace of mind. Many of our clients are overwhelmed by their medical conditions and fears about their financial security. While we can never promise a successful appeal, we work tirelessly on behalf of our clients. And, we will work with you to ensure that your paperwork is completed accurately and filed on a timely basis. And, when you have questions and concerns, we’ll do our best to answer them and provide emotional support.

Schedule an Appointment With a Ridgefield Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you’re ready to consult with an experienced Ridgefield Social Security disability lawyer, contact Hermann Law Group today. We offer free consultations and will not charge a fee unless we win your claim. And, unlike the high-volume, “big box” disability firms, we’ll treat you with the dignity and respect you deserve.