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The Social Security Administration’s decision to award benefits is based on complex government statues and Social Security Rulings. The experienced attorneys of Ted A. Greve & Associates, P.A. have the understanding and resources to help you file a successful claim. Whether you are filing your initial claim, or fighting for benefits that have been denied or reduced, we can help to protect your right to the full payment benefits.

Social Security disability benefits consist of monthly payments and/or Medicare benefits that provide compensation to those who are totally disabled from performing substantial gainful work of any kind. Social Security benefits can be obtained through two programs -- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). There is no age requirement for the receipt of disability benefits. If the claimant is receiving disability benefits at age 65, the disability benefits are automatically converted to retirement benefits.

Both SSDI and SSI have the same medical requirements. However, SSDI requires a certain amount of credit earned for prior work, whereas SSI is based solely on financial need, regardless of prior work. SSD provides cash benefits on a monthly basis for persons who are totally disabled. In most cases you must be suffering from a condition that has or will prevent you from being employed for at least twelve months or a condition that will result in your death. While only 30-40 percent of disability claims are approved initially, working with an attorney who understands the benefits system can help to improve your chances of receiving compensation.

SSI pays benefits to disabled needy individuals of any age, including children. Under SSI, children are considered disabled if they have a physical or mental condition which is so severe that it results in marked and severe functional limitation. As with an adult, the child's condition must last or be expected to last at least twelve (12) months, or be expected to result in the child's death. The amount of SSI to which a claimant is entitled depends on what the claimant owns and how much income he or she has. If a claimant is married, the Social Security Administration will also consider the income and property of the claimant's spouse in making a determination of entitlement to SSI.

If you believe you may be entitled to Social Security disability benefits, you may apply in person at your local Social Security office or by phone or mail. Due to inherent weaknesses in any bureaucracy handling large volumes of paper work, it is highly recommended that if at all possible you file your papers in person and save copies and receipts for everything. Initial processing of claims usually takes at least 60 to 90 days. The states, in cooperation with the Social Security Administration, assist in the handling of Social Security Disability cases by establishing an office called the Disability Determination Service (DDS) to evaluate and process the claims. Your claim will be sent to the Disability Determination Service office in your state. There, a decision will be made as to whether you are disabled under the Social Security law, based upon a review of your medical evidence, and possibly even a consultative medical exam which the DDS office schedules. At this level of the proceedings no hearing is held.

For more information, visit our Social Security Disability Frequently Asked Questions.

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