Denied disability benefits? Our disability lawyers fight for clients facing Social Security Disability (SSDI/SSI) denials and private insurance claim disputes. Whether you’re appealing an SSA decision or battling an insurance company over long-term disability benefits, we navigate the complex process so you can focus on your health.
Our disability lawyers handle Social Security Disability and disability insurance claims for individuals and families throughout Nebraska. We understand how frustrating it can be for clients when they follow the rules, yet still face benefit denial. Unfortunately, many claims are initially denied. It is critical to act quickly to enlist the services of an experienced disability lawyer who can guide you through the process.
Social Security Disability (SSDI/SSI)
Social Security Disability Claims & Appeals
When suffering from an illness or disability that prevents you from working for a period of 12 months, or is expected to be terminal, you may be eligible to receive income benefits through Social Security Disability.
In addition to demonstrating the extent of your medical condition to determine eligibility for SSD benefits, you must also have worked a certain number of years prior to becoming disabled (and contributed to the Social Security system through regular payroll deductions). However, understanding the requirements can be complex, which is why consulting experienced disability lawyers can make a significant difference. Even if you have not worked enough years prior to becoming disabled, you may still be eligible for monthly income benefits through Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Our disability lawyers at Copple, Rockey, Schlecht, & Mason P.C., L.L.O., can help you ensure your claim is properly documented and guide you through the process — whether you are submitting your initial application or need assistance with an SSD appeal.
Private Disability Law: Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
Long-Term & Short-Term Disability Insurance Claims
In addition to being eligible for SSD benefits, if an illness or disability renders you unable to work, you may be eligible for private disability benefits, either through an employment-based disability policy (an ERISA-based disability policy), or through a private disability policy you purchased. Obtaining short-or long-term disability benefits through either avenue can be an overwhelming process that is frequently more successful when guided by experienced disability lawyers.
Our disability lawyers have the experience and knowledge to effectively represent your interests when applying for short- or long-term disability benefits in Nebraska. We understand the law, know how to analyze complex policies, and have the skill to effectively guide you through challenging application and appellate procedures.
According to the Social Security Administration (as well as our own experience with clients), it usually takes 3-5 months for the application to get approved or denied. During this time, the SSA is gathering medical records, information, and evidence related to your condition and work history.
Private-or-employer-sponsored disability insurance may or may not be processed faster. It will depend entirely on the situation and what the policy is. As experienced disability lawyers, we can help you file for the benefits you are owed.
It’s true that SSDI is contingent upon how long and how recently you’ve worked. Most people must have worked 5 of the previous 10 years in order to qualify. The requirement is lower for young people.
The payments are based on how many work credits you’ve accumulated, which are based on your annual salary or wages (including self-employment income). No more than 4 credits can be earned by an individual in a year. The amount of wages required for a single credit changes each year.
How many credits you need in order to qualify for SSDI depends on your age and other factors. Consult our disability lawyers to find out if you are eligible.
Even if you think your work history disqualifies you, there may be other options. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides benefits for people with financial need, and it is possible you may qualify for SSI if you don’t qualify for SSDI.
It can take some time to actually receive your first payment. There is a 5-month waiting period from the date the SSA determines your disability began, and the release of the 1st payment. Your application will be pending during this period, and will probably be approved at some point before the 5-month period is completed. One good aspect is that back payments will be applied to the waiting period.
SSDI benefits are paid the month post taking effect. So your July benefits will be paid to you in August, for example.
In general, it could take some time to start receiving benefits. You should file as promptly as possible, to get the ball rolling. Even after the initial 5-month waiting period, it could take 30-90 days to see those payments begin, or possibly longer.
Initial denials are not uncommon, and not necessarily the last word. You can and should appeal the decision. The SSA allows 60 days from the date of the decision to file an appeal, so time is of the essence. An appeal request must be made in writing in those 60 days. Our disability lawyers will manage all aspects of the appeal so that you can rest assured that everything is completed accurately and correctly.
Our experienced disability lawyers can help with all aspects of filing your disability claim, as well as appealing it if necessary. The filing process involves lengthy questions and requests for documentation of your medical history, disability diagnosis, and work history. Getting all portions completed accurately is essential to the progress of your claim. Our disability lawyers ensure all the details are addressed and that you set yourself up for success to the fullest extent possible.
Let Our Attorneys Help You
Contact Copple, Rockey, Schlecht & Mason P.C., L.L.O. We will combine our experience, persistence, and meticulous research to ensure that you receive superior service. Our firm will hit the ground running for you and your family so you can get help as soon as possible. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.