FAQs about SSD and SSI

Colorado Lawyers Here to Answer Your SSD Questions

Do you have questions about qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)? Have you submitted an application to one of these programs and been denied? Are you looking for qualified counsel that can help you explore and execute your options?

Throughout Colorado and the United States, people seek out the experienced representation at The Wilhite Law Firm because our team of knowledgeable social security disability attorneys answer questions clearly and provide personal service that establishes trust with our clients.

In fact, service is one of our 5 core values. “Our mission is to serve the injured, and we let nothing interfere with that.”

To learn more about our service and experience, please do not hesitate to contact us online or call 720-709-2802 today to schedule a free initial consultation.

Often, people have many questions surrounding the application and appeals process for SSI or SSD. We understand the law is complicated in these areas, and we believe an integral part of our service is to help educate clients about these programs, as well as how to navigate the government agencies’ processes efficiently. Our SSDI and SSI attorneys can help you understand more about any of the following commonly asked questions:

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income

Who is eligible for SSI?

The elderly, the blind and other disabled people are eligible to apply for SSI.

Do I have to have a work history to qualify for SSI?

No. Your eligibility for this type of program is not dependent on your work history or how much Social Security tax you have paid into the system.

If I qualify for SSI, can I still receive Medicaid?

Yes, though there are restrictions regarding how much in benefits you will be entitled to receive. Our lawyers can help ensure you retain your rights to the maximum amount of benefits in each program under law.

Can someone help me apply for benefits or appeal my case?

Yes, a representative and advocate can help you with every part of the process, including all of the paperwork and appearing with you at any meetings or hearings.

How do I figure out how to report my income correctly?

We can help you with this, including making sure you account for all jobs, changes in pay, stop working dates, start working dates, or payments received from someone else you are living with.

Social Security Disability Income

Social Security Disability Income

How do I know if I qualify for SSD?

You must have worked long enough in a job that is covered by Social Security and you must have a disability that qualifies under the administration guidelines. We can help you determine if you meet both these factors.

What is a work credit?

A work credit is equivalent to a certain amount of wages for a given year. You must earn four of these credits per year.

How many credits do you need to be eligible for SSD?

The number of work credits you need to qualify for disability benefits generally depends on the age at which you became disabled. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the past 10 years, ending with the year you became disabled. However, younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.

What happens if I am denied?

Generally, most people’s initial applications are denied. We can help you with the subsequent appeals process. It will consist of a reconsideration stage as well as a stage that involves a hearing before an administrative law judge. There are two more appeal stages — an appeals council and appearing in federal court — after that. We have experience pursuing appeals at all levels.

Why is it beneficial having an attorney advocate on your behalf?

We know exactly what the SSA is looking for when evaluating an SSD application or appeal. We know how to cut through the red tape, gather essential documentation and persuasively advocate on your behalf. Also, our fees are dictated by federal law, so we recover only a small percentage if you are awarded benefits, and we are not paid unless we are successful in your petition for benefits.

Contact Our Social Security Disability Law Attorneys in Denver, Colorado, Today

Email us or call 720-709-2802 day or night, seven days a week, 365 days a year. We will review your case and give you a detailed SSI or SSD evaluation at no cost.