Are you eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits in NC?

Are You Eligible?

Are you eligible for Social Security Disability benefits in NC? Do you know if you are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income? If you are no longer able to work because of an injury or illness, you may be entitled to Social Security benefits.

Am I Disabled?

The Social Security Administration defines “disability” as a condition so severe it precludes a person from being able to perform a substantial amount of work for at least twelve months. A substantial amount of work, otherwise known as “substantial gainful activity”, means earning on average $1,180 or more per month or $1,970 Do you know if you are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income?

If you are no longer able to work because of an injury or illness, you may be entitled to Social Security benefits.per month for the blind. When determining whether your condition is disabling and thus precludes you from performing substantial gainful activity, the Social Security Administration will look at your ability to perform basic functions such as lifting, standing, walking, sitting, and remembering. The  Social Security Administration will also take the following characteristics into consideration when determining whether you have the ability to perform substantial gainful activity:

• Capability to perform last job (or any past jobs within the last 15 years)
• Ability to perform alternative types of work
• Age
• Level of education
• Acquired skills

The Social Security Administration will look at the above-mentioned factors to determine whether you have the ability to work any job. If you do not have the ability to perform any substantial gainful activity, you will be found disabled.

Social Security Disability Insurance

If you are disabled, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI is a program for individuals with prior work history who have paid a requisite amount into the Social Security system prior to becoming disabled. The Social Security Administration reviews two facets of your work history to determine if you are eligible for benefits: your recent work and the duration of your work.  Both requirements vary by age.

Though the amount is less for younger applicants, most applicants are required to have worked at least five of the ten most recent years to qualify. The required duration of work varies by age and requires a higher number of years worked as an applicant ages. If you are disabled and have the requisite work history, you will receive SSDI benefits irrespective of your assets or income.

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is is a need-based program for individuals who do not have the requisite work history to receive SSDI benefits. To qualify, you cannot have income or assets over a certain limit. Of course, you must also qualify as disabled under the above-discussed standards.

Filing A Social Security Claim

If you think you are disabled, you should file a claim with the Social Security Administration, either online or by visiting a local office. You should include a list of all impairments, conditions, and symptoms, along with a list of the addresses and phone numbers of all doctors, hospitals, and clinics involved in your treatment.

Appealing Disability Denials

The vast majority of applications for Social Security benefits are denied. Therefore, you will likely need to appeal to the Social Security Administration’s initial decision that you are not disabled. Hiring an experienced and knowledgeable attorney to represent you in your Social Security appeal can greatly increase your odds of eventually being found disabled and receiving benefits.

Your attorney will be aware of all deadlines, help you prepare your appeal, ensure the Social Security Administration has all of your records, advise you throughout the process, and represent at your hearing.

If you have been denied Social Security benefits, it is important that you contact an experienced attorney today. Our team of Monroe, NC social security disability attorneys will work with you to present your Social Security appeal in a timely and persuasive manner to give you the best chance of receiving Social Security benefits.  Call (704) 469-5523 to speak to an attorney today.

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