Encino
Encino is a vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood located in the central southern San Fernando Valley, surrounded by Sherman Oaks, Brentwood, Sepulveda Basin, Reseda, and Lake Balboa. Every year, hardworking Encino residents develop medical conditions or suffer injuries that make it impossible to continue working. If you cannot work due to a disability, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability benefits. The process, however, is complex, and most first-time applications are denied.
At Disability Advocates Group, our Encino disability attorneys help individuals throughout Encino and nearby communities like Sherman Oaks secure the SSDI and SSI benefits they deserve. We guide you from application through appeal. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Why Choose Disability Advocates Group?
- Free Consultations With No Obligation
- Decades Of Experience Handling Social Security Disability Claims
- Detailed, Evidence-Based Application Preparation
- Representation At All Appeal Levels
- Direct Communication And Ongoing Case Updates
- No Fees Unless We Win Your Case
Types of Social Security Disability Benefits In Encino
There are two primary disability programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA):
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Although medical eligibility is evaluated the same way for both programs, financial eligibility requirements differ significantly.
Our team will review your work history, income, assets, and medical condition to determine which program is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I qualify for Social Security Disability?
You must have a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months and prevent you from performing substantial work activity.
How long does the SSDI approval process take?
Initial decisions typically take several months. Appeals can extend the timeline but often significantly improve approval chances.
Can I work while receiving disability benefits?
Limited work may be allowed under trial work period rules, but income thresholds apply.
What if my disability claim was denied?
You have 60 days to appeal. An experienced disability attorney in Encino can guide you through the reconsideration and hearing stages.
How much does it cost to hire a disability attorney?
We work on contingency. You pay no legal fees unless we win your case.
The Difference Between SSDI & SSI
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are the two different benefit plans for disabled Encino residents. However, the eligibility requirements are different for these benefits programs. The main difference between SSDI and SSI benefits involves the applicant’s history of working and paying into the Social Security system.
SSDI Benefits
SSDI is available to workers who have earned enough work credits by paying into the Social Security system. You must:
- Have sufficient work credits
- Have a medical condition expected to last 12 months or result in death
- Be unable to perform substantial gainful activity
SSI Benefits
SSI is a needs-based program for low-income individuals who may not qualify for SSDI. To qualify, you must:
- Have limited income
- Have less than $2,000 in assets (or $3,000 for couples)
- Meet the federal definition of disability
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, speak with an attorney in Encino before filing your application.
Hear What Our Happy Clients Have to Say
“I am very grateful with the positive results regarding my case, “DAG” from Encino California. The staff involving Rosa Anzures-Case Manager, also Mark Shirman-Supervisor, and Michelle Jordana Shvarts-Attorney, whom are very instrumental as a team. All my inquiries were handled on a timely manner, and all my questions were addressed professionally. Especially during a time when I was stressful and overwhelmed. I highly recommend “DAG” for your services.” – Lalo R.
How To Apply For SSDI Benefits In Encino
To qualify for SSDI, you must prove:
- You have a qualifying disability
- Your condition prevents you from working
- Your condition will last at least 12 months (or result in death)
- You have earned sufficient work credits
The SSA uses a medical reference guide called the Blue Book, which lists qualifying medical conditions. Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if it is equally severe.
Our team ensures your application includes:
- Complete medical documentation
- Work history details
- Functional capacity limitations
- Physician support statements
Many initial claims are denied due to incomplete paperwork. We make sure yours is not.
Documenting The Severity Of Your Disability
Approval depends on proving your condition prevents you from performing:
- Your past work
- Or any other work available in the national economy
Administrative Law Judges rely heavily on medical records and vocational expert testimony.
Our team prepares your case thoroughly to demonstrate:
- Physical limitations
- Cognitive restrictions
- Pain levels
- Mental health impairments
- Work capacity limitations
Proper documentation dramatically improves approval chances.
The Application ProcessApplying For SSI Benefits In Encino
SSI applicants must prove:
- Disability under federal guidelines
- Limited income and financial resources
California SSI recipients may also receive additional state supplemental benefits.
We assist Encino and surrounding San Fernando Valley residents with:
- Income documentation
- Asset verification
- Medical evidence submission
- Financial eligibility analysis
Appealing A Social Security Disability Denial
Most first-time disability applications are denied.
If you receive a denial letter, you have 60 days to file an appeal. The appeals process may include:
- Reconsideration
- Administrative Law Judge hearing
- Appeals Council review
- Federal court review
At a hearing, our attorneys:
- Cross-examine vocational experts
- Present medical evidence
- Argue your inability to work
- Advocate aggressively before the judge
Strong legal representation can make a difference.
Serving Encino & Surrounding San Fernando Valley Communities
While our focus is on helping Encino residents, we also assist clients in neighboring communities such as:
- Sherman Oaks
- Brentwood
- Reseda
- Lake Balboa
- Van Nuys
- Sepulveda Basin
Contact Our Disability Attorney In Encino Today
If you cannot work because of a disability or serious medical condition, do not navigate the Social Security system alone. Disability Advocates Group helps Encino residents secure the SSDI and SSI benefits they need to protect their financial stability. Schedule your complimentary, no-obligation case evaluation today.
Chatsworth, CA 91311
Telephone: (855) 727-3598
Office Hours: 9AM - 4PM
Panorama City, CA 91402
Telephone: (800) 325-0778
Office Hours: 9AM - 4PM
