If a disability is preventing you from working, Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be a crucial lifeline for you and your family. Navigating the SSD system can be complex, which is where a knowledgeable disability lawyer in Dallas at Kraft & Associates, Attorneys at Law, P.C., can make all the difference. We are dedicated to helping disabled individuals in Dallas obtain the benefits they are rightfully entitled to.
Our experienced legal team provides comprehensive support throughout the SSD process. We can assess your eligibility, guide you through the application, protect your legal rights, and offer expert advice at every stage. Don’t be discouraged if your initial application is denied; many valid claims face initial setbacks. Our Dallas disability lawyers are skilled in handling appeals and can fight for your claim.
At Kraft & Associates, we operate on a contingency fee basis for SSD claims. This means you only pay us if we successfully recover benefits for you. For a free review of your case, contact our Disability Lawyer Dallas team today at (214) 999-9999.
How a Dallas Disability Lawyer Can Help Your SSD Claim
Engaging a disability lawyer in Dallas from the outset of your Social Security Disability claim can significantly improve your chances of success. At Kraft & Associates, Attorneys at Law, P.C., we believe in early involvement to provide guidance and safeguard your rights throughout the entire Social Security process. Our services extend to every phase, from the initial application and reconsideration stages to representing you at formal hearings before an Administrative Law Judge.
Our law firm is prepared to address any questions you may have regarding Social Security Disability. Beyond SSD claims, we also advocate for individuals with personal injury claims, including those arising from car accidents and premises liability incidents. If we are unable to assist you directly, we are committed to connecting you with suitable legal professionals or agencies who can.
SSD Eligibility in Dallas, Texas: Do You Qualify?
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits in Dallas, Texas, you generally need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for five of the last ten years. Furthermore, you must be facing total disability due to a medical condition, whether illness or injury. Knowing when to consult with a Dallas social security disability attorney is crucial, and Kraft & Associates, Attorneys at Law, P.C., are adept at navigating the complexities of eligibility to help you secure your benefits.
In most SSD cases, you must demonstrate to the Social Security Administration (SSA) that your condition prevents you from performing your previous job or any other substantial gainful activity within the current economy. You also need to prove that your disability is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
3 Steps to Applying for SSD Benefits in Dallas
Understanding Your Potential SSD Benefit Amount in Dallas
The amount of SSD benefits you may receive is linked to your past earnings. Benefit amounts can vary significantly, ranging from approximately $300 to over $2000 per month. The Social Security Administration calculates your specific benefit amount based on your income history and contributions to Social Security. It’s important to note that any workers’ compensation benefits you receive can affect your SSD benefit amount. Additionally, there is a standard five-month waiting period before SSD benefits commence.
Our firm ensures that the calculated monthly benefit amount and the start date of your benefits are accurate, advocating for your financial interests.
Example Scenario:
- Disability onset date determined as August 5, 2011, by the Administrative Law Judge.
- Favorable claim decision received on July 15, 2012.
- Monthly benefit award: $1,000.
- Back benefits due: Covering eleven months from disability onset minus the five-month waiting period, totaling six months of benefits.
- Total back benefits: $6,000 ($1,000 x 6 months).
Key Considerations for Your Dallas SSD Claim
Every SSD claim is unique, and the information provided here is not exhaustive. However, certain fundamental guidelines apply to all claims:
- Honesty is paramount.
- Present a truthful and accurate representation of your medical condition. Avoid exaggeration, but also do not downplay your symptoms or limitations.
- Be thorough and specific with details and examples when providing testimony, but avoid unnecessary rambling.
- Maintain consistent medical care with your doctor throughout your claim process. Gaps in treatment can be interpreted as a lack of severity in your condition during those periods. If you lack a regular doctor, Dallas County residents may seek treatment at Parkland Hospital, and Tarrant County residents can access care at John Peter Smith Hospital.
- Rely on your disability lawyer to guide you. Your attorney will be there during hearings to assist if you overlook crucial details or need to clarify information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Dallas SSD Benefits & Claims
Social Security Disability FAQs
Am I eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits in Dallas, Texas?
Eligibility for SSD benefits in Dallas, Texas, hinges on your work history and the severity of your disability. If you have contributed to the Social Security system through employment and are now unable to work due to a disabling condition expected to last at least a year or result in death, you may qualify. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will require proof of your disability and its impact on your ability to work.
How much will I receive in Social Security Disability benefits in Dallas, Texas?
The SSA calculates your SSD benefit amount based on your lifetime earnings before disability. As of 2015, monthly benefits can range from approximately $300 to over $2,000. If you also receive workers’ compensation, it may affect your SSD benefit amount. Consult with a disability lawyer in Dallas to understand how these factors apply to your situation.
Can I work and receive Social Security Disability benefits in north Texas?
SSD benefits are designed for individuals unable to engage in substantial gainful activity due to disability. Working above a certain income threshold, known as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), can impact your eligibility. In 2015, the SGA level was $1,090 per month (except for blind individuals). Earning above this amount during the application process can disqualify you. Different rules may apply if you are already receiving benefits. For clarification, speak to a Dallas disability lawyer.
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI benefits?
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): SSDI is for disabled individuals who have a sufficient work history and have paid Social Security taxes. It also covers disabled surviving spouses and children. SSDI is not based on financial need.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is need-based and available to disabled individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. The disability criteria for SSI are the same as for SSDI. A disability lawyer in Dallas can help determine which program is right for you.
What are Compassionate Allowances?
Compassionate Allowances (CAL) are a list of severe medical conditions recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that clearly meet disability standards. For conditions on the CAL list, the SSD application process is expedited due to the evident nature of the disability based on objective medical evidence.
Do I need an attorney to apply for SSD benefits?
While you can apply for SSD benefits independently, engaging a disability lawyer in Dallas can significantly increase your chances of approval. We recommend consulting with an attorney before filing your initial application to ensure accuracy and completeness. Incorrect or poorly presented information can negatively impact your claim. If your claim has already been denied, our experienced Social Security Disability Lawyers in Dallas at Kraft & Associates can assist you with the appeals process to pursue your benefits.
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