"Did you know that initially, Social Security denies more claims than they approve? Many of those who have their claim denied often feel lost in a bureaucratic maze. We have been helping seriously injured people navigate the Social Security laws and rules for over a half century."
"If your Social Security Disability Benefit has been denied, call me. I can review your claim and determine how you should proceed."
- Attorney Terrence Dempsey Of Lenahan & Dempsey
Disability Defined
Title II Claims
For Social Security rules, a disability means you cannot do substantial gainful work. This is because of an illness or injury that has lasted at least one year. It may also be expected to last at least one year.
In some cases, it can result in death. You must provide substantial medical evidence to explain how this illness or injury has affected you. Social security disability determinations are based on your ability to engage in your past employment or other work for which you have the necessary skills.
A determination on your claim is based on factors such as age, education, work history, and transferable skills. This type of disability is known as a Title II Claim.
Title XVI Claims
Title XVI claims are those where you are seeking supplemental security income, also known as SSI.
To be eligible to file for SSI under Title XVI, you must meet an income and assets test. Your income and assets must each be below a certain limit. Your work record is not considered for supplemental security income benefits eligibility.
What Benefits Does Social Security Disability Offer?
Social Security Disability (SSD) offers several benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to their qualifying disability. Here are the key benefits:
- Monthly Cash Payments: SSD provides a monthly income to help cover living expenses. The amount is based on your average lifetime earnings before your disability.
- Medical Coverage: After you get SSD benefits for two years, you can get Medicare. It includes hospital insurance (Part A) and medical insurance (Part B).
- Access to Vocational Rehabilitation: Some recipients may qualify for vocational training, job placement help, and other services. These services can help them return to work, if possible.
- Dependent Benefits: In some cases, family members (such as a spouse or children) may also qualify for benefits based on your disability.
- Protection Against Inflation: SSD benefits are adjusted each year for cost-of-living increases. This helps them keep pace with inflation.
- Eligibility for Other Programs: SSD recipients may also qualify for other aid programs. These may include Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, housing assistance, or food stamps. Eligibility depends on their financial situation.
These benefits aim to provide financial stability and access to essential resources for individuals who are unable to work due to a disability.
What is SSI Disability PA?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability in Pennsylvania (PA) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides financial assistance to individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged (65 or older) and have limited income and resources. Here's an overview of SSI disability in PA:
- Monthly Cash Payments: SSI benefits provides monthly payments to help cover basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter. The federal benefit rate is standard across the U.S., but Pennsylvania may offer an additional state supplement.
- Eligibility Requirements:
a. Disability: You must have a qualifying disability as defined by the SSA, which means a condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
b. Income Limits: Your income must fall below a certain threshold, which includes wages, pensions, and other sources of income.
c. Resource Limits: You must have limited resources, such as cash, bank accounts, and property, typically not exceeding $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples. - Medical Coverage: In Pennsylvania, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid, which provides comprehensive health coverage.
- State Supplement: Pennsylvania offers a small additional payment to SSI recipients, known as the State Supplementary Payment (SSP). The amount varies based on living arrangements and other factors.
- Application Process: To apply for SSI disability in PA, you can:
a. Visit your local Social Security office.
b. Apply online through the SSA website.
c. Call the SSA at their toll-free number.
Did They Deny Your Claim? Our Disability Social Security Attorneys Can Help
If your claim has been denied, you must contact a lawyer as soon as possible. You only have sixty (60) days to request a Formal Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. At this hearing, you will be allowed to present your case to gain Social Security Disability Benefits. This is the point where the majority of disability cases are won or lost.
You must have proper legal representation during this process. This is a formal legal process, and certain steps must be taken to protect your rights and options. At the law firm of Lenahan & Dempsey, P.C., we handle Social Security cases, and we’re here to help you.
