Des Plaines Social Security Disability Attorneys

Des Plaines Lawyers for SSDI and SSI Benefits and Denied Claims

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are crucial programs managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These programs provide assistance to people who cannot work and support themselves financially due to physical or mental disabilities. Understanding the eligibility requirements and the application process for these benefits can be difficult, and without legal help, applicants may have their disability claims denied. At Grauer & Kriegel, LLC, our attorneys can provide invaluable assistance with these cases, including by assisting with the application process or appealing the denial of disability benefits.

Types of Disabilities Covered by Social Security

Social Security covers a broad spectrum of disabilities which include, but are not limited to:

• Musculoskeletal problems, such as back injuries
• Cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure or coronary artery disease
• Neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease
• Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder
• Immune system disorders, such as HIV/AIDS and lupus
• Respiratory illnesses, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) or asthma

Requirements for Proving Total Disability

Social Security disability benefits may be provided to people who have experienced total disabilities and are unable to perform work at the level of substantial gainful activity (SGA). A disability must have already lasted for one year or more, or a diagnosis must show that it is likely to affect the person for at least 12 months or eventually lead to their death. To show that they are totally disabled, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Not currently working: A person will be ineligible for Social Security disability benefits if they are currently working and earning enough income to support themselves.
2. Medical severity: The condition must significantly limit the applicant’s ability to perform basic work activities.
3. Listed impairments: A person will qualify for disability benefits if their condition is included in the SSA’s list of qualifying conditions or is equal in severity to a condition that is listed. If a condition is not listed, the following two criteria will determine whether a person qualifies for disability benefits.
4. Previous work: The applicant must demonstrate that they cannot perform work in jobs they have previously held during their career.
5. Other work: The applicant must show that their condition prevents them from performing other types of work. If the limitations of a condition are severe enough that a person would be unable to maintain employment, they will qualify for disability benefits.

Key Information Required in a Disability Claim

When filing a claim for disability benefits, several pieces of information are necessary:

• Personal identifying information, including Social Security number
• Comprehensive medical records from hospitals and doctors who have treated the condition
• A detailed work history describing jobs held and types of work performed during the last 15 years
• Information about any workers' compensation claims related to a disability

Common Reasons for the Denial of Social Security Disability Benefits

The Social Security Administration may deny disability claims for several reasons, including:

• Insufficient medical evidence: If a person did not submit documentation that supports the severity of their condition, Social Security may not have enough information to determine whether they are totally disabled.
• Short disability duration: When a person’s condition has not affected them for at least 12 months, their claim may be denied if they have not provided Social Security with sufficient documentation to show that the condition will likely last for at least 12 months or lead to their death.
• High income: If a person applies for benefits while they are currently earning more than the SGA limit, their claim will be denied.
• Failure to follow treatment: Social Security expects disability recipients to take all necessary steps to recover from their conditions. Failure to follow prescribed treatment without a valid reason can lead to a denial of disability benefits.

Contact Our Des Plaines Social Security Disability Lawyers

Do not let the complexity of the laws that affect Social Security disability benefits prevent you from obtaining the benefits you deserve. Contact Grauer & Kriegel, LLC today at 847-240-9010 to arrange a complimentary consultation and learn more about how we can help with your disability claim. Our compassionate and dedicated attorneys will advise you on the best steps to take to receive the benefits you need.