Cerritos Social Security Disability Lawyer

Cerritos Social Security Disability Attorney

Navigating the Social Security process is often overwhelming and complicated, especially for individuals already dealing with the challenges of a disabling condition. Many applicants find themselves lost in the bureaucracy, leading to delays or even wrongful denials of their much-needed benefits. A Cerritos-based workers compensation lawyer from Canlas Law Group can also assist if your Social Security Disability claim is related to a workplace injury. Their legal expertise can help streamline the process and ensure that you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.

Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits involves complex paperwork, strict eligibility requirements, and, often, the need to appeal initial denials. The support of a Social Security Disability lawyer becomes essential in this case. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the application process, ensure your case is well-documented, and represent you in appeals if necessary.

By having a lawyer on your side, you significantly increase your chances of securing the benefits you deserve, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being.

How a Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help

A Social Security Disability lawyer can provide significant assistance throughout the process of applying for benefits in Cerritos, CA, including the following ways:

• Initial application: Lawyers can help their clients complete the application forms accurately, ensuring that all the necessary information and documentation are provided. They can also assist in gathering and organizing medical records, statements, and other evidence that is needed to support the claim.
• Navigating the system: A lawyer can explain Social Security’s disability criteria and help clients understand how their condition fits within these requirements. If their client’s initial claim is denied, a lawyer can guide them through the appeals process, including preparing and filing the necessary paperwork.
• Representation: Lawyers can represent clients at disability hearings before an administrative law judge (ALJ), presenting evidence and arguments on their behalf. They can also communicate with Social Security Administration (SSA) officials, handle correspondence, and resolve any issues that arise.
• Increase chances of approval: A lawyer can provide essential advice on how to improve the chances of approval, such as additional medical tests or reports. They can help obtain and present expert opinions or testimonies if needed, such as from vocational experts or medical professionals.
• Handling complex cases: An SSD lawyer can address complex cases involving multiple conditions, conflicting medical opinions, and previous denials. They offer continued support throughout the process, answering questions and addressing concerns as they arise.
• Reducing stress: Handling the administrative tasks and paperwork is often overwhelming, and an attorney can reduce stress by shouldering these tasks, which frees the client to focus on their health and recovery.

Understanding Social Security Benefits

In California, there are two types of Social Security benefits — Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI provides financial support to individuals who cannot work due to a disability and have a sufficient work history. SSI offers financial assistance to low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older, regardless of work history.

SSDI requires a certain number of work credits based on past employment and Social Security taxes paid. You must also meet Social Security’s disability criteria. SSDI monthly payments are based on the applicant’s average lifetime earnings. The maximum benefit amount varies each year. Applicants can apply online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. They will need medical documentation and work history.

SSI eligibility is based on income, resources, and disability status or age. No work history is required. Benefits for SSI are determined by the federal government, with additional state supplements. Applicants can apply through the Social Security Administration, providing information about income, resources, and medical conditions.

FAQs About Cerritos, CA Social Security Disability Law

What Is the Most an SSDI Lawyer Can Charge?

The most an SSDI lawyer can charge is 25% of their client’s past-due benefits, also known as back pay, with a cap of $7,200, whichever is lower. This fee structure applies to most cases where the fee is pre-approved by the SSA. However, the lawyer only gets paid if you win your case and are awarded back pay. If there is no back pay awarded, then the attorney does not receive a fee. There may be other costs associated with the case as well.

How Long Does It Take to Switch From SSI to SSDI?

How long it takes to switch from SSI to SSDI can vary depending on your circumstances. To switch to SSDI, you must have a sufficient work history and have paid into the Social Security system. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for SSDI. Once you apply for SSDI, the approval process can take time, depending on how quickly your application is processed and whether you are required to provide additional documentation.

For specific guidance, it’s advisable to consult with a Social Security representative or an attorney experienced in disability benefits.

What Counts as Disability?

What counts as disability in California is broadly defined under both state and federal law, including the state Fair Employment and Housing Act and the Americans With Disabilities Act. Conditions that count as disability can be physical or mental and affect the body and mind, such as mobility issues, chronic illnesses, sensory impairments, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and more.

What Differences Are There Between SSI and SSDI?

There are several differences between Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance. SSI is a needs-based program for low-income individuals, and SSDI is an entitlement program based on work history, both with an effort to provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities.

Speak With a Trusted Cerritos Social Security Disability Lawyer

Securing Social Security Disability benefits is often a complex and challenging process that requires more than just filling out forms. The guidance of a skilled SSD lawyer can make all the difference in successfully navigating the system, from the initial application to the appeals process. A lawyer’s experience not only increases your chances of approval but also helps to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits you are entitled to.

By having a dedicated advocate on your side, you can focus on managing your health while they handle the intricacies of your case. If you are considering applying for SSD benefits or have been denied, consult with a Canlas Law Group lawyer to set up a consultation.

Cerritos Social Security Disability Resources:

• What Are My Rights As A California Employee?
• California Final Paycheck Law
• California Workers’ Comp Settlement Chart 
• Workers’ Compensation For Temporary Workers In California
• Who Can Be Excluded From Workers’ Compensation In California?
• What Happens If I Get Fired While On Workers’ Comp In California?