Georgia: Social Security Disability Lawyers

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is one of the largest of several United States Federal programs with the purpose of providing assistance to persons with disabilities. Workers pay into SSDI out of their paychecks. When a worker suffers an injury or disability, they can file a claim to get benefits if they are no longer able to work. Before a disabled worker can get SSDI benefits, they have to qualify and go through the application process. Unfortunately, some workers are improperly denied benefits and have to turn to a Social Security disability lawyer for legal advice.

Who Qualifies for Social Security Disability?

Disabled workers can qualify for Social Security disability benefits but assistance is not automatic. An eligible individual has to apply to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and be approved to receive benefits. To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, an eligible applicant has to:

• Earn enough work credits; and
• Be considered “disabled" under the Social Security Administration's standards.

Work credits are based on annual wages and quarters of work. The amount of earnings to earn one quarter of credits changes every year. Most workers can earn up to 4 work credits per year. To qualify for SSDI, an individual needs 40 credits, with at least 20 credits earned in the 10 years prior to the disability.

The number of qualifying credits can be reduced for workers who have not worked long enough to accumulate 40 credits. Some people may be able to get benefits if they do not work, including disabled children, veterans, disabled young people, and surviving spouses.

A disabled worker also has to qualify with a disabling condition. The SSA has a list of qualifying impairments, which includes multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and certain types of cancer. For impairments that are not listed conditions, it is up to the SSA to determine whether the disability qualifies. Each person who files a Social Security disability claim has to provide the medical evidence to show an impairment and the severity of the impairment.

Many Social Security disability law firms provide Social Security disability representation on a contingency basis. A contingency fee agreement means that the lawyer will only be paid after you win your claim. Contingency fees for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) cases must qualify under Social Security Administration (SSA) fee agreement guidelines.

Additionally, Social Security disability attorneys are only able to charge fees up to a maximum that is set by statute. This means that the lawyer should be able to tell you up front how much their services will cost based on your situation.

A Social Security disability lawyer may also offer a free consultation. A free initial consultation can help you find a Social Security disability lawyer that can represent you without having to spend anything out-of-pocket.

Many lawyers offer free or low-cost consultations. Finding a lawyer that can align to your needs and goals may impact the outcome of your legal matter. Things to do to help get you started include:

• Ask for recommendations and referrals from friends, family, and colleagues
• Research attorneys online through directories and bar association websites
• Review qualifications and experience
• Interview prospective lawyers
• Consider compatibility
• Read client reviews and references
• Determine conflicts of interest

Making an informed decision when choosing an attorney requires time to research if a lawyer is a good fit for you. Asking the right questions can help you determine if they have the approach, capabilities, and experience to assist you in your legal matter. Some questions to ask a potential attorney include:

• What is your experience and expertise in this area of law?
• Have you handled cases like mine and what were the outcomes?
• What strategy would you use for this type of case?
• What are the biggest challenges of my case?
• What is your fee structure and how do your charge for your services?