Law Office Of Megan E. Burke, LLC

Free Consultations | Call Me Directly: 419-540-5721

Law Office Of Megan E. Burke, LLC
Law Office Of Megan E. Burke, LLC
EMAIL

CALL

Decades of Success in Workers’ Comp, SSDI and Personal Injury Matters

Commonly Asked Questions About Social Security Disability Insurance

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI/SSD) benefits are critical resources that support workers who become disabled and cannot work for at least a year. Getting SSD benefits can be challenging on your own. You must be able to prove, at minimum, that you have a qualifying disability and that you have worked long enough to qualify for benefits.

I am SSD attorney Megan E. Burke, and I have the experience necessary to help you seek SSD benefits in Ohio. I can guide you through the application process and handle appeals if you are denied at any step. If you have been working a long time and are unable to work now due to a disability, injury or serious illness, you likely have a good case for benefits. Let’s speak about it in a free consultation. Located in Toledo, I represent people throughout the surrounding area.

How Do You Know If You’re Eligible For SSD?

To be eligible for SSD benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates your eligibility based on the disability you have, your age and the length of time you have worked. The SSA also states: “The average of your earnings over your working years, not the total number of credits you earn, determines how much your monthly payment will be when you receive benefits.” 

You must also have a qualifying medical condition as defined by the SSA. Your condition must prevent you from doing any “substantial gainful activity” for at least a year or is expected to cause death.

I know this can be confusing, so I’m here to answer your questions.

What Happens If Your SSD Claim Is Denied?

If your SSD claim is denied, don’t panic. The Social Security Administration turns down nearly three-quarters of the applications initially. This does not mean that your case is hopeless, however. With the right legal help, you can still seek benefits.

I can help you with the appeals process, which includes:

  • Reconsideration: A new review of your claim and any additional information you submit
  • Administrative law judge hearing: An ALJ review of your case and a decision on it
  • Appeals Council review: Taking your case to the Appeals Court for a decision on the ALJ’s ruling
  • U.S. District Court action: Pursuing a ruling in federal court

These processes can be complex. You need an experienced SSD lawyer on your side.

Can You Get SSD If You’re Receiving Workers’ Compensation?

Yes, it is possible to get workers’ comp benefits and SSD benefits at the same time. It will depend on your specific circumstances, however, and you should be aware that your benefits may be lower if you are on both programs at once. 

Do You Need A Lawyer For Social Security Disability Cases?

It is often very helpful to work with a lawyer during the application process and through any appeals you may have. I can help you gather the right medical records, determine your eligibility for benefits and represent you at hearings. This helps to streamline the process of applications and denials, which are very common.

You don’t owe me any fees unless I get SSD benefits for you. My fees come out of the amount of your benefits award.

Let’s Talk Today About Your SSD Claim

Please call the Law Office of Megan E. Burke, LLC, at 419-540-5721. You can send an email if you prefer. I offer a free initial consultation.