Carrollton Social Security Lawyer

A disability can have serious financial consequences for any family � especially when it occurs before you planned on retiring. It can be stressful to think about where will you get the income you need to survive. The answer may be Social Security Disability (SSD).�If you have become disabled before you planned to retire, you may be eligible for SSD.

Contact an experienced Carrollton Social Security lawyer to review your medical records, analyze your situation, and determine whether you qualify. If you have already been denied, a skilled Carrollton attorney can help you through the appeal process.

What Is SSD & Who Qualifies?

As a lawyer could explain, SSD (sometimes referred to as Social Security Disability Insurance or SSDI) essentially provides monthly benefits if someone becomes disabled and cannot work before they reach retirement. It is based on the taxes paid into Social Security during someone�s lifetime � the average payment currently being approximately $1,200 per month.

The�Social Security Administration (SSA)�publishes an impairment listing manual commonly referred to as the �Blue Book� which lists the physical and mental impairments that may qualify for SSD benefits. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Cancer
• Cardiovascular conditions, such as heart failure or coronary artery disease
• Digestive tract problems, such as liver disease or IBD
• Hematological or blood disorders, such as hemolytic anemias and disorders of bone marrow failure
• Immune system disorders, such as HIV/AIDS, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis
• Kidney disease and genitourinary problems
• Mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, autism, or retardation
• Musculoskeletal problems, such as back injuries
• Neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy
• Respiratory illnesses, such as COPD or asthma
• Senses and speech issues, such as vision and hearing loss
• Skin disorders, such as dermatitis
• Various syndromes, such as Sjogren’s Syndrome and Marfan Syndrome

It is important to keep in mind that medical conditions do not have match the above descriptions exactly and that the Blue Book is continually revised. So, anyone who is unsure about whether their condition qualifies for social security should contact a Carrollton lawyer.

A Lawyer Could Help with the Social Security Disability Process

Generally speaking, the Social Security Disability process includes obtaining medical records and opinions which show the Social Security Administration that an applicant is disabled and qualifies for SSD.

Although it may sound simple, it often is not.�Applications containing even the simplest of errors can be rejected outright.�In fact,�many initial SSD requests are denied.

However, an initial denial should never result in giving up hope as more than half of those are reversed on appeal. That is why having an experienced SSD attorney can make all the difference. A social security attorney can:

• Determine if medical reports are consistent with SSA regulations to increase chances of prevailing on the initial request
• Refer applicants to specialists when records are inconsistent with SSA regulations
• Obtain a vocational expert�s evaluation of an applicant�s ability to work
• Request the reopening of a prior application
• Seek to waive applicable time limits when necessary
• Request subpoenas to insure the presence of crucial witnesses or documents
• Advise applicants on how best to prepare for and testify at the hearing
• Provide guidance during the hearing

A Carrollton SSD lawyer can also help applicants appeal initial decisions and make sure that approvals result in the proper benefit calculations.

Rely on the Expertise of a Carrollton Social Security�Attorney

Filing a Social Security Disability claim can be complex and applications and appeals often have very strict deadlines. In addition, results can often vary depending on the judge assigned to your case.

Make sure that you put your best foot forward by seeking the representation of an experienced Carrollton Social Security lawyer who understands how the process works, can explain how long it may take and what obstacles to expect and can advise you on how best to increase your chances of success the first time around.