Being Denied Social Security Disability Benefits in Monterey Isn't the End for Your Claim

First, you should know that most people are denied the first time they apply. But you have the option of working with a Monterey Social Security Disability attorney like the ones at Angelina Valle & Associates to help with your appeal. In fact, Social Security’s statistics show you have a better chance of winning benefits if you get help from a disability lawyer. “A Social Security Disability lawyer is trained in disability law, knows all the rules of the system and can really help make a difference in your claim,” says attorney Angelina Valle. “If you were denied, I strongly recommend you get help from a disability attorney.”

The biggest reason to work with an attorney is if you need help with your hearing (if necessary). Due to the current backlog of cases before the Social Security Administration (SSA), there’s about a year wait for a hearing. In addition to this backlog, there are roughly 816,000 hearings pending according to the SSA.

If you’re denied, it can take a while to go through the Monterey Social Security Disability appeals process, but success is possible. According to the latest statistics, there are about 11 million people in America receiving SSD. The average monthly benefit paid is $1,130. Additionally, nearly 8.3 million people receive SSI – a different program for those with a low income and disabilities.

If you do win your disability claim, getting your benefits can take a while because of the backlog. And once you do start receiving your benefits, your case will most likely be reviewed to make sure you are still disabled.

As America’s Average Age Increases, So Do Social Security Disability Applications

Claims for benefits have gone up 25 percent 2007 – mainly because more and more baby boomers are finding themselves in need of disability benefits. They’re trying to get disability benefits since they aren’t quite old enough to get retirement.

In 2013 alone, more than 3.2 million people applied for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplement Security Income (SSI). But, with more applications, come more denials – this is where an attorney can make a big difference.

In order to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must meet the SSA’s strict definition of “disabled.” SSA’s definitions means you must have a medical condition – it can be physical or mental – that is expected to keep you from work for at least one full year (or result in your death).

Social Security’s data shows that the most common conditions include bone and muscle pain and mental disorders.

What Do You Do If You’re Denied in Monterey?

You appeal.

And while you can do everything by yourself, you’re better off working with a disability attorney.

As you can imagine, there are complicated rules, procedures, doctors, judges and many things for you to manage. You should be focused on getting better. Let an attorney focus on winning your case.

If you can’t work because of your medical condition and want help, visit ssa.gov or valle-law.com.