Claiming social security benefits when you are disabled can be a daunting process, especially if your claim is initially denied. Boston social security attorney Smith and his team of attorneys have helped his clients claim social security disability benefits for over 15 years. He understands the lengthy and complex nature of the social security claims process. He can provide the comprehensive representation you need to obtain your disability benefits. Please contact us today if you need help with your social security matter.

If you have a long-term disabling condition, you may be able to receive social security disability income (SSDI) or supplemental security income (SSI) benefits. You can apply for SSDI benefits online; however, you must apply for SSI benefits at the local Social Security Administration (Administration) office. If you qualify for SSDI, the information in your application can be used to initiate the SSI process. A representative will contact you to obtain any additional information the Administration may need to determine if you also qualify for SSI.

It is important to apply for benefits soon after you become disabled, since it may take anywhere between three to five months to process your application. You will need to provide information about:

• Yourself and your family, such as names, places and dates of birth;
• Your medical condition, including names and contact details of your doctors and hospitals, prescription medications, and the results of any medical tests; and
• Detailed information on your work history, such as your earnings, name and address of your employer, and a list of up to five jobs you had in the past 15 years.

After you complete your application, the Administration will review it and let you know if it needs additional documentation, or if any of your family members may also qualify for benefits. It will forward your application to the local Disability Determination Services office. The office will review your application and determine if you meet the federal definition of disabled.

If your application is approved, you will begin receiving benefits starting on the sixth month after you became disabled. Your case will be reviewed periodically to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for each program.

If your application is denied, or if at any point the Administration determines that you are no longer disabled, you can initiate the appeals process:

• Reconsideration – The first step in the appeals process is to make a request for reconsideration. You have 60 days to request a reconsideration of your application. You can meet with a hearing officer if your disability benefits were ceased, and can continue to receive benefits if you make a request, in writing, within 10 days after you receive notice of cessation.
• Hearings – If you disagree with the decision on your reconsideration application, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. You must make the request within 60 days after the reconsideration determination.
• Appeals Council – If you disagree with the decision after the hearing, you may appeal further to the social security appeals council.

Fighting a denial of your claim can be a stressful and lengthy process. An experienced social security lawyer can answer your questions and offer you the representation you need to appeal a denial of your claim.

Boston social security lawyer Michael O. Smith has extensive experience in social security matters. Mr. Smith has provided numerous clients with the aggressive representation they need to appeal denials of their SSDI and SSI claims. He can review your case and explain every step of the appeals process. He will work to get the medical documentation and support you need to make your claim for benefits. If you need assistance in your social security disability matter, call our office at 617-263-0060. You can also reach us online and we can arrange an initial consultation at no cost to you. We have offices in Boston