Residents of Phoenix who cannot work due to a medical condition are entitled to Social Security Disability benefits. Obtaining these vital public benefits can be challenging, however, and initial claims are frequently denied. The best way to protect your rights is to work with an experienced disability attorney.
At Disability Attorneys of Arizona, we represent individuals and families in Phoenix and around the state in disability benefit claims. Whether you need assistance filing a claim or your claim has been denied, we can help. Well-versed in the medical and technical eligibility requirements for obtaining benefits, we will provide you with compassionate, efficient representation and help you navigate all aspects of the process.
Because we understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges facing you, your initial consultation will be free and there is never a fee until we win benefits for you. Contact our Phoenix office today so we can get to work immediately.
Defining Disability in Phoenix, Arizona
The SSA defines disability as a physical or mental condition that (1) is expected to last at least one year and (2) prevents you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA). The SSA will also determine whether your illness or injury prevents you from doing the type of work you did previously or some other type of work.
In addition, the SSA maintains a list of qualifying impairments (the Blue Book) that disability examiners used as a guide to making disability determinations. The list includes medical conditions that affect various bodily systems, such as:
- Musculoskeletal issues — back, joint, and muscle injuries
- Cardiovascular disease — congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, atherosclerosis
- Sense and speech issues — hearing/vision loss
- Respiratory ailments — COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer
- Digestive disorders — liver disease, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease
- Kidney disease — kidney failure, chronic renal failure, organ damage due to a medical condition (e.g. diabetes), kidney cancer, bladder cancer
- Neurological disorders — multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, cerebral palsy
- Endocrine disorders — Type-1 diabetes, Type-2 diabetes, thyroid cancer
- Immune system disorders — HIV/AIDS, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis
- Skin disorders — skin cancers, dermatitis
- Hematological (blood) disorders — hemolytic anemias, bone marrow failure
- Cancer — certain advanced or metastatic cancers
If your condition is included in the listing, you generally qualify as long as you meet the technical eligibility requirements. Finally, you may still be awarded benefits if your condition is not included in the Blue Book but a disability examiner determines it is medically equivalent to a listed impairment. Our Phoenix disability attorneys have in-depth knowledge of impairments that qualify and the determination to get you the benefits you deserve.
How do I obtain disability benefits in Phoenix?
The process starts by filing an application with the SSA Phoenix field office, which can be submitted online. The application includes numerous forms and questionnaires that must be completed accurately; you must also provide medical evidence supporting your claim.
Once your application is submitted, a disability examiner will review it to ensure all information has been provided and determine whether you meet the technical eligibility requirements. To obtain benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, for example, you must have (1) paid into the Social Security system and (2) acquired enough work credits based on your employment history.
If you meet the technical requirement, your claim will be reviewed by Disability Determination Services (DDS) based on the medical record, which must include a doctor’s opinion with a diagnosis and prognosis of your condition. If your application is approved, you will be notified by the SSA in writing about the benefit amount and the date benefit payments will begin. You will also be notified if your claim is denied and informed about your right to appeal the disability determination.
What happens if my disability claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, it takes an experienced Phoenix disability attorney to help you navigate a disability appeal. Trust Disability Attorneys of Arizona to assist with filing your appeal, arranging for expert medical and vocational testimony, and representing you at the disability hearing.
Our decades of experience handling disability claims have enabled us to develop working relationships with disability examiners and Administrative Law Judges (ALJs), which will stand you in good stead. We have a well-earned reputation as dedicated advocates of the disabled who adhere to the highest standards of professional excellence. Above all, we will always work in your best interests and fight for the disability benefits you deserve.
Contact Our Experienced Phoenix, Arizona Disability Attorneys
If you are disabled and cannot earn a living, you probably have concerns about getting the medical care you need and supporting yourself and your loved ones. This is the time to call Disability Attorneys of Arizona.
Rest assured will we stand by you every step of the and help you obtain the medical and financial resources you need. We are conveniently located in Phoenix, but we can easily arrange a teleconference if traveling is difficult for you. Contact us today to set up an appointment.