Disability
Disability Lawyer DFW
Get the Benefits You Deserve
Trying to apply for and receive benefits from the Social Security Administration can be difficult and confusing, often resulting in denials. In fact, many claims are initially denied by the Social Security Administration. But don’t give up hope!
Schedule Free Consultation
Expert Navigation of the Benefits Process
The Law Office of Beverlei Colston, PC has the experience to help you navigate the Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits process. We can help you with:
- The application and appeal process.
- Obtaining all the necessary evidence needed.
- Filing a disability reconsideration.
- Representation at hearing.
We have had success in getting denials overturned and having benefits granted.
Our Commitment to You
At the Law Office of Beverlei Colston, PC, we will ensure that your case is handled in the most professional, competent, and personal manner. We understand this is a difficult time for you, and we will help you navigate the legal system and get you on the road to a better financial future.
Understanding Eligibility
You may be entitled to benefits if you meet the definition of disability as defined by Social Security. However, you must be able to prove not only that you have a disability but that:
- Your disability prevents you from working.
- It is expected to last for more than 12 months.
Even if you’re unable to meet the requirements for SSD, you may still be eligible for SSI benefits based on your disability and income.
Please contact us for a free consultation to discuss your situation.
- Affordable flat fees are charged, and payment plans are available.
- For Chapter 7 cases, payment plans are prior to filing.
- Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your specific case and cost.
Disability FAQs
What is Social Security Disability?
The Social Security Disability program is a federal program that pays benefits to people who, because of a disability, are unable to work for at least a year or more.
What is the definition of disability used by Social Security?
The definition of disability for adults means that the individual must have a medical condition that can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for at least one year that prevents the individual from performing work he or she did in the past, as well as other types of work that exist in the national economy. This definition applies to adult workers, widows/widowers, and “adult” children seeking disability benefits.
For children younger than age 18, the definition of disability is different. The child must have a medical condition that causes “marked and severe functional limitations” and that can be expected to cause death or that has lasted or can be expected to last at least one year.
How does Social Security Determine if you’re disabled?
Social Security will consider your medical records from your doctors as well as any consulting doctors who may have examined you at the agency’s request. Social Security also considers other evidence such as: your complaints about symptoms and medication side-effects and how they affect your ability to function; your daily activities; third party reports about your condition and how it affects your ability to function; your age, education, and work experience; and evidence about jobs that may be available in the national economy.
What types of medical problems are severe enough to qualify for disability?
There’s no certain list of medical conditions that can get disability. Generally, any condition that is severe enough and interferes with a person’s ability to work can be disabling. For example, cancer or heart disease or any other life threatening conditions are not automatically disabling conditions; nor are common conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Nearly any condition, if severe enough can be found to be disabling. The focus, however, is on how the medical condition affects your ability to work a 40 hour full time job.
How do you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
You must have worked and paid into the program (mandatory payroll taxes) for five of the last 10 years. You must also meet Social Security’s definition of disability. However, if you don’t meet this requirement, you may still qualify for a different program known as Supplemental Security Income or (SSI).
What is Supplemental Security Income?
SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and older adults who have little or no income or resources.
Who can get SSI?
Adults and children might be eligible for SSI if they have:
- Little or no income, and
- Little or no resources, and
- A disability, blindness, or are age 65 or older.
How much are attorney’s fees?
No fees, unless your claim is accepted! Our law firm will only charge you if we win your SSD or SSI benefits. We charge on a contingency basis, 25% of the back pay awarded to a claimant when we win the case.
The fee cap is set by the Social Security Administration (SSA) for all representatives, and is periodically adjusted for inflation just like monthly SSD and SSI benefits. Social Security pays us directly so our claimants don’t have to write a check.
