Trusted Oklahoma City
& Tulsa Social Security Disability Laywer
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program administered by the Social Security Administration to pay benefits to individuals with a disability who meet medical and earnings criteria. Certain family members may also receive benefits. However, the system of paying benefits under SSDI in Oklahoma can be highly complex, and the paperwork involved can be difficult and confusing to all but an experienced Social Security Lawyer. Benefits are often denied to those who try to navigate the process without an experienced Oklahoma attorney. The qualified SSDI attorneys at Lawter & Associates, PLLC have years of successful experience helping people claim their Social Security Disability benefits from our offices in Tulsa and Oklahoma City.
Social Security FAQ’S
Q: What is the difference between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)? To which one do I apply for benefits?
A: SSI and SSDI are both Federal programs to provide assistance to people with disabilities available in Oklahoma. SSI is based on financial need and financed through taxes for those with little or no income. SSDI benefits are paid to individuals and their families based on your earnings and the amount you paid in Social Security taxes.
Q: When should I apply for SSDI benefits?
A: Apply as soon as you believe you qualify for benefits under the Social Security’s definition of disabled. To be eligible, you must be unable to be gainfully employed because of a physical or mental impairment that is expected to last at least 12 months or end in death. You do not have to wait until you have been disabled 12 months to apply for benefits; if your disability is expected to last at least 12 months, you may apply.
Social Security defines “substantial gainful employment” as earning of $980.00 per month in 2009. If your disability allows you to work and earn this much, you do not qualify for SSDI. However, if you are able to work, but your disability prevents you from earning at least $720.00 per month, you are still eligible to apply for benefits. If you have further questions seek the advice of an experienced SSDI lawyer at Lawter & Associates PLLC.
Q: Do I have any recourse if my application for SSDI benefits is denied?
A: If your application is denied, you should appeal the decision immediately, although you have 60 days to appeal your denial. If you fail to appeal within 60 days, you lose all right of appeal on that claim and must start the process over from the beginning. Filing an appeal is your best way to have your claim reconsidered, as a new claim will likely be rejected for the same reasons as the first. Immediately contact your Oklahoma City SSDI attorney or Tulsa Social Security lawyer and file an appeal if your application for Social Security benefits is rejected.
Q: Can I receive SSDI benefits if I am not permanently disabled?
A: You may receive benefits if your disability will last at least one year and prevents you from obtaining substantial gainful employment.
Q: Can I ever lose my disability benefits?
A: All SSDI cases are subject to review. If your review finds that your medical records and physical examination indicates that your condition has improved to the point where you can obtain substantial gainful employment, your benefits will be stopped. You may appeal the decision, and your benefits will continue throughout the appeal process. However, if you lose the appeal, you must repay the benefits received during the appeal.
Q: Can my benefit be increased if my condition worsens?
A: Your benefit is a set amount based on your earnings record, and if your application is approved, you receive the full benefit. Therefore, your benefit will not increase.
Why Choose A Lawter Law Lawyer?
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30+ years of Oklahoma social security disability law experience
- Lawyers of integrity: honesty, reliability and trust
- Our attorneys are dedicated to a quick and smooth process
- A free legal consultation in our office or at your home
Still not convinced? Read some of our 50+ client testimonials or call:
Tulsa Social Security Disability Attorney - 1.800.239.9202
Oklahoma Social Security Disability Attorney - 1.800.238.4797