Memphis SSDI Lawyer

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides different monetary benefits to millions of people who meet the qualifying criteria for each program. One of the most common benefits that the SSA provides is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

A Memphis SSDI lawyer could help you determine if you are eligible and maximize your chances of a favorable application. A claim denial could have devastating repercussions throughout the rest of your life. Because of this, retaining the assistance of a seasoned Memphis SSDI lawyer could be crucial to protecting your financial security and your future.

Who is Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits in Memphis?

Social Security Disability is meant for individuals who are physically or mentally disabled to such an extent that they are incapable of holding gainful employment. Accordingly, for an applicant to have a chance at receiving benefits, they must go through the social security process and show the Social Security Administration that they meet the definition of “disability.” This means their condition makes them unable to perform their previous job or other work, and it will last for a minimum of one year or directly result in their death.

Applicants must also have earned sufficient work credits prior to becoming disabled in order to qualify for SSDI. In most situations, applicants need 40 work credits in total, at least 20 of which were earned in the last five out of ten years prior to applying.

Although the exact amount of income necessary to constitute a work credit changes from year to year, 40 work credits broadly equate to about ten years (depending on age) of gainful employment. This employment could either be with someone else’s company or if someone is self-employed. A Memphis social security disability attorney could explain what requirements apply to an applicant and help determine if they are eligible.

Important Information and Documents for SSDI Applications

Filling out a Social Security Disability form requires several different types of documentation. Identity and citizenship papers, medical documents, and affirming work history are some of the documents a person applying for SSDI benefits must provide.

Identity and Proof of Citizenship

SSDI applicants need to provide information to the SSA about their identity, which generally means submitting copies of their birth certificate, Social Security card, and photo ID. They also need to show proof of their citizenship, lawful status, and information about their spouse and children, if applicable.

Medical Documentation

A comprehensive application should have substantial medical documentation about the applicant’s qualifying disability, including contact information for and dates of treatment from different medical professionals, medical test results, and details about prescription medications.

Work History Affirmation

Applicants should be prepared to submit documents affirming their work history, including their most recent W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns. They also must submit award letters or settlement agreements related to workers’ compensation benefits received.

An SSDI attorney in Memphis could help collect relevant documents and compile them into a clear petition for benefits.

Our Practice Areas for Social Security Benefits

At Pickford Law, we have experience helping clients navigate the complexities of the disability benefits process. From filing initial applications to appealing denied claims, we work to ensure that our clients have the best chance of securing benefits.

Some areas we help clients with SSDI and SSI needs include:

• Disabled widow benefits (DWB)
• Disabled adult child benefits
• Supplemental security income (SSI)

Enlist the Aid of a Memphis SSDI Attorney Now

Applying for disability can be a time-consuming and confusing process, especially if you have not interacted with the SSA before. On top of that, a single error in an application could lead to significant processing delays or an outright rejection, either of which could deprive you of the benefits you need.

Acquiring assistance from a Memphis SSDI lawyer early on could make a huge difference in whether or not you receive the support for which you file. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.