How Our New York City Social Security Disability Lawyers Can Help You
The Social Security disability lawyers at Tucker Lawyers PC know how best to maximize your potential benefits. The Social Security Administration provides benefits to disabled individuals under two programs: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
It’s beyond the scope of this article to fully outline the requirements you’ll need to meet to qualify for either of these programs. The authorities take many things into account when deciding whether to grant benefits; if you’re concerned about your entitlements, you should consult with a Social Security disability attorney in NYC to discuss your own situation in detail.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides stipends to low-income individuals who are elderly (65 or older), blind, or disabled. SSI benefits are needs-based, meaning they’re determined by your income and resources rather than your work history. Although the Social Security Administration is in charge of this program, it’s financed by general tax revenues, not Social Security taxes.
To qualify for SSI, you must:
- Be over 65, blind, or disabled (according to the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability). It’s important to note that no SSA benefits are available for individuals with partial or short-term disabilities; only claimants with total, long-lasting disabilities are eligible.
- Have a limited income (accounting for earnings as well as things like free food or accommodation you may have access to) and limited resources.
- Reside in the U.S. or the Northern Mariana Islands and be either a U.S. citizen or a qualifying noncitizen.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed to provide income to people who are unable to work due to a disability, and to their families. However, unlike SSI, SSDI does not pay out on the basis of financial need. Instead, your work history and the amount of Social Security taxes you’ve paid dictate your benefit entitlements.
Per the SSA website, in order to qualify for benefits under the SSDI program, you must:
- Earn the required number of credits by working and paying Social Security taxes.
- Meet the SSA’s definition of disability (this is the same definition that applies to SSI applications).
The intricacies of qualification under Social Security guidelines can be hard to understand, but our dedicated Social Security disability lawyers can take factors such as work history, assets, and income into account to figure how much coverage you qualify for. Failing to correctly fill out the application or misrepresenting your claim can lead to denial by the Social Security board.
Unrepresented claimants often run into trouble when submitting their application.
Why Choose a New York City Social Security Disability Attorney From Tucker Lawyers PC?
The Social Security disability lawyers at Tucker have a wealth of experience when it comes to helping people in their hour of need. We work on a variety of case types related to disability and work injuries, so we know exactly what we’re doing when it comes to claims like yours. Crucially, however, we also know how emotionally draining it can be to face financial disaster because of complex claim requirements and red tape. If you come to us, we’ll be here for you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What information do I need to apply for Social Security Disability Benefits? When applying for SSDI, you need:
- Proof of your age, such as a driver’s license or official state ID.
- Your Social Security number.
- Names of any medications you’re taking and information about dosages and other relevant details.
- Medical records from all health care providers you’ve visited for treatment. This may include your primary care physician as well as any other specialists, hospitals, clinics, or case workers who provided treatment.
- Test results.
- Records of your work history.
- A copy of your most recent W-2 form or federal tax return if you’re self-employed.
Contact Our Social Security Disability Lawyers in NYC
Social Security is often the last line of defense between disabled individuals and major financial difficulty. If you’re struggling with some aspect of your application and you don’t know where to turn, schedule a consultation with one of our Social Security disability lawyers.
You can reach us via our website or over the phone at (516) 399-2364. Remember, we don’t charge legal fees unless we secure compensation for you, so there’s no risk for you in coming to tell us your story.
Managing Attorney John. J. Tucker, Esq.
John has personally handled thousands of clients who were victims of another’s negligence and fights relentlessly for their rights. John enjoys bringing closure to a client’s matter so that the injured party can move forward with their life. His background enables him to evaluate complex liability related claims and bring resolution to claims in a record time frame. [ATTORNEY BIO]
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Tucker Lawyers. From the very beginning of my case, they demonstrated unwavering dedication and professionalism. They were consistently ‘on top of everything,’ ensuring no detail was overlooked. Their proactive communication was remarkable I truly appreciated the regular calls and follow-ups after my doctor appointments, which kept me informed and reassured throughout the process. – Meaghan L.
I would highly recommend Tucker Lawyers. During a very stressful time and not knowing where to turn Tucker Lawyers really stepped up to the plate and put my mind at ease. They were very attentive and guided me and my family through this ordeal with a very successful outcome. John Tucker was fantastic. Very diligent and kept on top of things. You have a client for life for life. – Joan L.
