Like residents of nearby cities in Arizona such as Phoenix and Tempe, however, the people of Scottsdale face many challenges, especially those who are living with disabilities. While the federal government has well-established benefit programs to assist disabled individuals, obtaining these benefits is daunting. If you or a loved one is seeking disability benefits in Scottsdale, the best way to protect your rights is to consult an experienced social security disability benefits attorney.
Scottsdale Social Security Disability Benefits Attorney
Disability Attorneys of Arizona is a premier disability benefits practice representing clients in Scottsdale. Founding attorney Kiel Roeschke dedicates his practice exclusively to helping disabled individuals obtain the benefits they need and deserve. Kiel is highly regarded for being a knowledgeable and compassionate lawyer, as well as a dedicated advocate of the disabled.
Our legal team is well-versed in the eligibility requirements for disability benefits offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and knows how to navigate the federal bureaucracy. We regularly work with disability examiners at the SSA’s regional office in Phoenix who recognize that we only represent individuals with legitimate disability claims.
When you become our client, we will guide you through all phases of the application process from submitting the initial claim to filing an appeal to disability hearings. At the end of the day, working with Disability Attorneys of Arizona increases the likelihood of your obtaining these vital public benefits.
What types of social security disability benefits are available in Scottsdale?
The SSA offers two benefits programs to disabled individuals in Scottsdale: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
SSDI is only available to individuals who have paid into the Social Security system and have acquired enough work credits. These benefits are intended for disabled individuals between the ages of 18 and 65 who cannot work, regardless of their financial resources. By contrast, SSI is a means-tested program with strict income and asset thresholds. These benefits are only available to disabled individuals who are 65 or older or blind, even if they have not paid into the Social Security System.
To be eligible for SSDI or SSI, you must (1) have a medical condition that has lasted, or is expected to last one year or more or result in death and (2) be able to prove that you are incapable of performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA). The SSA will also consider whether you can perform the same type of work you did before the onset of the disability, or whether you may be able to adjust to other work.
Finally, the SSA maintains a listing of qualifying medical conditions known as the Blue Book. You may still be awarded disability benefits even if your medical condition is not listed, provided that the SSA determines the condition is medically equal to a listed impairment. At Disability Attorneys of Arizona, we are knowledgeable about the Blue Book listings and will work to help you qualify for disability benefits.
How do I obtain disability benefits in Scottsdale?
The disability benefits claims process is initiated by filing an application with the local SSA field office. The application must be completed accurately and contain sufficient medical evidence substantiating your claim. If there are any errors or omissions, your claim will be denied. Moreover, you will also be required to undergo a consultative examination with an independent doctor chosen by the SSA. Your claim will be denied if the findings of the exam do not support the medical record submitted with your application. Given that the majority of initial disability benefits claims are denied, it is crucial to have an experienced disability benefits lawyer handle your claim.
What happens if my disability benefits application is denied?
If the SSA denies your application, you will receive a letter that explains why your claim was denied and informs you of your right to file an appeal. Although the appeals process can be lengthy and confusing, Disability Attorneys of Arizona will be there every step of the way from Requests for Reconsideration to disability hearings. If your claim is denied after the appeals process has been exhausted, we will consider filing a lawsuit in federal court.
Contact Our Scottsdale Social Security Disability Benefits Attorney Today
If you are seeking disability benefits, you need the advice, guidance and emotional support Disability Attorneys of Arizona provides. We will handle all the details of your claim, assist with the application process, and work closely with your doctor to compile the necessary medical evidence. Above all, we will treat you with dignity and respect and work tirelessly to help you obtain the disability benefits you deserve. Please contact our office today for a free evaluation of your case.