Long Beach Social Security Disability Attorney
Long Beach, California, is a popular city located in the greater Los Angeles metro area. Long Beach is the seven most populated city in California. Located on the coast of California, the Port of Long Beach is the second busiest container port in the country. Long Beach has a population of 462,257, according to the 2010 United States Census.
Long Beach is a well-known tourist destination and is home to the Aquarium of the Pacific and the RMS Queen Mary, permanently docked in Long Beach. The sunny weather, hot summers, and mild winters are appealing to residents and visitors alike. The city is also home to California State University, Long Beach, one of the state’s largest universities.
Long Beach Social Security Disability Lawyers
Many residents of Long Beach could benefit from receiving Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (SSDI). If you or your loved one have a disability that prevents you from working, you may be eligible for benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA offers two types of benefits programs, Social Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
At Disability Advocates Group, we focus on protecting disabled individuals in Long Beach and Southern California. Living with a disability is challenging, especially when your disability prevents you from being able to work. Our disability lawyers have an in-depth understanding of the eligibility requirements for SSDI and SSI. When you meet with us, we utilize our vast resources and skills to help you obtain the disability benefits you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can help you and your family receive disability benefits.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits in Long Beach
To secure SSDI benefits, you must prove that you qualify for the benefits. Applicants must have paid into the Social Security system through income tax deductions, have a disability, and be between the ages of 18 and 65. SSDI applicants will also need to demonstrate that they have enough work credits based on how long they’ve worked, their age, and how recently they worked.
If you haven’t worked long enough to qualify for SSDI benefits, you may qualify for SSI benefits. The eligibility requirements for SSDI and SSI are somewhat complicated. At Disability Advocates Group, we will evaluate your unique situation and help you understand whether you qualify for benefits. We can help clear up any confusion you may have when it comes to your benefits.
Qualifying for SSI Benefits in Long Beach
The SSI benefits program is separate from the SSDI benefits program. You do not need to prove that you’ve worked long enough or paid into the Social Security system to qualify for SSI benefits. The SSA uses a means test to determine eligibility for SSI benefits. Only those applicants who have minimal assets qualify for SSI benefits.
An applicant must have $2,000 or less in assets. If the applicant is married, the couple may only have $3,000 or less in assets to qualify. Some assets, including your primary residence, or one vehicle, are not counted during the means test. At Disability Advocates Group, we can help you determine whether you qualify for SSI or SSDI benefits.
Applying for SSDI or SSI Benefits
If you are considering applying for SSDI or SSI benefits in Long Beach, hiring an experienced lawyer is essential. The SSA rejects most first-time applications for benefits. When you have an experienced lawyer assisting you with your application, your chances of success will increase. The application process is somewhat complicated and requires significant paperwork. Our legal team can help you ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and thorough, giving you the best chance possible.
Appealing SSDI/SSI Denials
Appealing for SSDI benefits is a complex process. You will need to ensure that you meet the basic eligibility requirements and that you’ll need to demonstrate that you have a qualifying medical condition when applying for SSDI benefits. Unfortunately, the SSA denies many first-time applications for SSDI and SSI.
If the SSA has denied your application, you do have a right to appeal the decision. You will benefit from speaking with a Long Beach SSDI appeals lawyer as soon as possible. The SSA imposes strict deadlines at each stage of the disability benefits appeal process. Working with an experienced disability lawyer is crucial.
Filing a Request for Reconsideration
The first step in the appeals process is to file a Request for Reconsideration. You must submit your request within 60 days of receiving notice of your denial or lose the right to appeal. During the reconsideration process, an examiner will review your case. At Disability Advocates Group, we look for any errors that could have happened during the initial determination and bring them to light during this stage. If you’ve received a new diagnosis or your condition has worsened, we will help you provide documentation during this stage.
Social Security Disability Hearing in Long Beach
The second step of the appeals process involves a disability hearing. You will need to request a hearing within 60 days of the reconsideration denial. An administrative law judge will ask you questions about your employment history and your medical condition. An experienced SSDI lawyer will help you prepare for the hearing and ensure that the administrative law judge understands the extent to which your disability affects your day-to-day life.
There are typically some experts, including a medical expert, at the hearing. After the hearing, the judge will usually mail a written decision to you within 120 days of the hearing. If the administrative law judge denied your appeal, you still have options. You can choose to file an appeal with the SSA Appeals Council. If necessary, you may benefit from filing a lawsuit in federal court.
Contact Our Long Beach
Social Security Disability Law Firm Today
If you need to apply for SSI or SSDI, but you don’t know where to start, Disability Advocates Group is here to help. We represent clients in Long Beach who need to apply for benefits and clients who need to appeal a denial of their application. Our clients do not pay any attorney fees until we secure benefits on their behalf. Please contact our office today to schedule your free consultation.
501 West Ocean Boulevard, Suite 5300
Long Beach, CA 90802
Telephone:(855) 532-0889
Fax:(833) 365-0277
Office Hours:8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
