Ashland Social Security Disability Claims

For decades now the Social Security Act has been the most substantial financial protection plan in the United States. The umbrella of the Social Security Act has many programs under it, but one of the most utilized is Social Security Disability. This program provides a myriad of financial assistance benefits to residents who have become disabled and are no longer able to work.

In a nutshell, SSD works similarly to a long-term disability insurance program. Throughout your career, each time you receive a paycheck there are social security taxes taken from the wages earned. These taxes are then added to the funds that support the Social Security Act programs, and dispersed accordingly. In other words, when you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you are simply asking for your money.

Unfortunately, getting your benefits is not as easy as simply submitting an application. In fact, the process of submitting your first Social Security Disability application is lengthy, stressful, and even overwhelming. The amount of information that you have to submit can be staggering. A complete medical and personal history must be submitted, and then researched and confirmed before your application can even move on to the step phase.

Having an experienced and dedicated Social Security Disability attorney in your corner can make all the difference in how your case goes. In fact, almost all Social Security Disability applications that are submitted are denied the first time around. However, your chances of being approved greatly increase if you work with a qualified attorney. At Shlesinger & deVilleneuve we help hundreds of Oregon residents every year get their Social Security Disability claims approved and benefits started.

If you have been injured or become disabled and you are unable to work, you need to get your SSD benefits as soon as possible in order to pay your bills and manage your medical expenses. Getting your claim approved the first time around can make a huge impact on how you are able to live your life. Some things that you can do to help your claim are:

Keep track of deadlines. Everything with the SSD process is driven by deadlines. There are application deadlines, appeal deadlines, and all of them must be adhered to or you claim will be denied and benefits suspended or postponed.

Keep a journal. It is human nature to go through the day without being fully present mentally. Keeping a journal forces you to record how your day goes. Keep track of any events that you wanted to attend or, tasks that you wanted to complete but couldn’t because of your disability.

Keep track of medications. Write down the medications that you take and when. Keep track of the side effects of those medications and how those side effects impact your life and your ability to do things.

Keep records. Get a small file cabinet or safe and keep copies of all records, reports, and communications that you receive.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I file for disability benefits?
“Please contact us to discuss filing an application for your Social Security disability benefits.”
I just received a denial notice. What should I do?
It can be disheartening to receive a denial notice from Social Security. This happens to most people when they apply. It is important to file an appeal within the 60-day time limit, and to seek legal advice from a qualified and experienced attorney.
Do I need a lawyer to represent me for disability?
Claimants are not required by Social Security to have an attorney. Individuals can go through the process alone, but it is not advisable. An experienced attorney fighting for you can make all the difference.

I requested a hearing months ago. Why is it taking so long?
There is a backlog of claims at the hearing level all across the country. Average waiting times are around 16 months. Even though it may seem like nothing is happening, this waiting period is an important opportunity for you to improve your chances at hearing. There are things you could be doing right now that might help your case.
How much do attorneys charge to represent me for my Social Security disability claim?
Attorney fees are only paid after being approved by the Social Security Administration and only if you are approved for benefits. Fees are paid out of your retroactive benefits. Currently, federal law allows attorney fees of up to 25% of your retroactive benefits and a maximum of $6000, whichever is less.

Helpful Links:

Social Security Website: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

National Institute of Health: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/

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Shlesinger & deVilleneuve
Social Security Benefit Attorneys

At Shlesinger & deVilleneuve, our fees are paid contingent on us successfully getting you benefits. In other words, you are not required to pay us unless we win for you! When you contact our office, one of our team members will connect with you the same day and will be happy to book a free consultation. Making certain you are approved for benefits is very important to us. We will take the time to learn about you and your circumstances – you are our priority!