Mesa, Arizona SSDI Attorney
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A catastrophic illness, failed major surgery, a traffic accident, a heart attack, a stroke -- any of these events can result in a long-term disability that turns your life upside down. Social Security disability benefits may be the only safety net to avoid complete personal and financial ruin.
At The Law Office of Joy H. Hansler, in Mesa, we focus our entire practice on protecting the rights of individuals who have filed Social Security disability claims. We are committed to providing compassionate, supportive, and effective representation. Complete and submit our Free Case Evaluation and we will contact you to discuss your case.
The Social Security system can be confusing and intimidating. The process requires that you file extensive paperwork and even minor errors or omissions can stall your claim or lead to a denial. The process is governed by a complex set of rules and regulations. You need an experienced attorney to help you get the benefits you deserve.
Common Issues in Social Security Disability Claims:
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How does Social Security determine I am disabled?
The Social Security Administration ("SSA") considers you disabled if you cannot do work you have been doing, or you cannot adjust to other work due to a physical or mental impairment (or combination of impairments) and the disability is expected to last at least 12 continuous months or result in death. The SSA will also consider age, education, past work experience, and transferable skills.
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How long do I have to wait before filing a claim?
You can file for benefits on the same day you become disabled. If you suffer from a serious illness or injury and expect to be out of work for a year or more, do not make the mistake of waiting months or years to file a claim.
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How do I apply?
You can apply for benefits by online, by phone or in-person. You should complete SSA Form 3368-BK (Disability Report - Adult) beforehand so that your are prepared for your interview. All forms can be obtained at your local Social Security office.
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I have several health problems that alone are not disabling. In combination, are these enough for getting benefits?
Social Security is required to consider the combination of impairments that an individual suffers in determining disability. Many claimants have more than one medical condition.
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How much are my benefits?
Your monthly payment is based on the amount of your lifetime average earnings that have been subject to FICA taxes. Your disability benefit will be reduced by workers' compensation payments and any other public insurance, such as state and civil service disability benefits. Private insurance or other personal assets do not affect the amount of your disability payment. The maximum monthly benefit in 2008 is approximately $2,000 for an individual and $3,400 for a family.
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Can I also get Medicare?
If you are approved for Social Security benefits, you will also get Medicare after you have been entitled to Social Security benefits for two years.
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How far back in time do benefits go?
The application date is critical because the Social Security Administration limits payment of back benefits to 12 months prior to the date of the initial application or claim.
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How long do benefit payments last?
You are entitled to your benefits as long as you continue to qualify for them. If your medical condition improves and you can return to work, or if you actually return to work and make a certain amount of money, your benefit payments can stop. If you feel that your benefits have been unfairly terminated, you can appeal and request a hearing before the Administrative Law Judge.
Don't wait until your claim has been denied to contact our offices. If you work with us from the beginning of the process, we can help ensure that your application is correctly prepared and filed, so that you minimize the risk that your claim will be denied.
When you need an experienced lawyer to resolve a Social Security disability matter, complete and submit our Free Case Evaluation and we will contact you to discuss your case. All new clients receive a free initial consultation. Evening appointments are available upon request. If you have any questions, please contact us today.
The Law Office of Joy H. Hansler
3707 East Southern Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85206
Phone: (480) 246-8085
Fax: (480) 807-4447