We recognize that at any time a disability can strike any person or family unexpectedly. Whether you need assistance to submit your initial application, or have already been denied benefits and need to prepare for reconsideration, our attorneys can help you navigate the complex Social Security Disability claims process. With the skilled legal representation of Brown & Crouppen, your chances of receiving Social Security disability benefits are significantly improved.

It is estimated that up to 54 million disabled children, adults and their families live in the United States. To provide economic assistance to the disabled, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has instituted two programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

SSDI is an “insurance” program that pays disability benefit to persons (as well as to their certain disabled dependents) who have paid into the Social Security trust fund through Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA taxes). The employers of these insured individuals make equal FICA contributions on behalf of the employee.

SSI is a financial aid, or needs-based program that provides a basic income for disabled people who meet specific low-income guidelines. Regardless of your lack of employment history and age, you can receive SSI benefits when you become disabled.

The Social Security Act defines disability as the “inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months”. More simply put, to be considered disabled, you must prove that you are unable to do any type of work for which you are suited due to a medical condition, and that condition is expected to last for at least one year, or is terminal. While approximately 6.5 million people received benefits last year, the SSA denies benefits to a significant portion of first time applicants and often terminates existing benefit payments.

Many of the people denied benefits have true disabilities and should receive assistance. Unfortunately, people are often deprived of benefits due to insufficient medical proof that a disabling physical or mental impairment exists. If you have been denied benefits, or your benefits have been reduced, terminated, or the SSA notifies you of any other actions against you, file for “reconsideration” immediately. From the time of denial, you have only 60 days to file a reconsideration appeal. If you appeal within 10 days of being notified of a disability benefit action, you may be able to continue receiving payments while you appeal the decision. It is critical that you maintain medical care and documentation throughout the determination process since they are important to supporting your claim.

The only time that you will meet with the SSDI or SSI decision maker in person is at your hearing, therefore it is critical to have expert representation and thorough preparation for your appearance. Armed with a well-prepared case, expert testimony, an understanding of the legal system and evidentiary requirements, you will be equipped to fight for your right to receive fair benefits.

Keep in mind that SSA denies up to 75% of first time claims and 82% of reconsideration appeals. Brown & Crouppen can help you improve those odds. Contact our Social Security Disability lawyers today to discuss your case and begin developing strategies for success in winning your social security disability claim and receiving the benefits to which you’re entitled.

Call Brown & Crouppen at Toll Free: 866-991-4700 for your free legal consultation or save time with our online Contact Form.

A Client's Story...

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My name is Raymond G. I first filed a claim for social security disability benefits in early 1996 without the help of an attorney. I appealed two denials and went to a hearing before an administrative law judge, believing that he would make a fair decision after looking at all of my records. Unfortunately, he did not consider most of the records in my file and did not listen to my testimony...  CONTINUE

Things You Should Know...

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The fact is that almost all the cases we take are disability claims that have been turned down, sometimes multiple times, by people who didn’t have attorneys. Remember the Social Security Administration is not set up to be your advocate, their job is to represent the system, not you. Statistics prove that people with lawyers are more likely to win their cases then those who go it alone.   CONTINUE