Greenwood Social Security Disability Lawyer

At Pilzer Klein, we focus exclusively on Social Security Disability cases, offering personalized legal support to individuals in need. Our Greenwood Social Security Disability lawyers are here to help you pursue the benefits you deserve. 

All new clients at Pilzer Klein meet directly with an attorney, not a non-attorney representative, ensuring clear communication and professional guidance throughout your case. Our experienced South Carolina Social Security Disability lawyers understand how challenging this process can be. 

Whether you’re filing a claim or appealing a denial, we are committed to providing the dedicated legal representation you need at every step. Contact Pilzer Klein today to discuss your case with a qualified attorney.

Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to severe medical conditions. These benefits are designed to help those who have contributed to the Social Security system through their work history but can no longer maintain gainful employment because of their disability.

Our experienced Social Security Disability lawyers can help you through the application process. If your claim has been denied, our Greenwood Social Security Disability attorneys can also assist with appeals to fight for the benefits you deserve.

Who Qualifies for Social Security Disability Benefits?

To qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, you must meet the eligibility criteria established by the Social Security Administration (SSA). This process requires demonstrating that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. 

Additionally, your condition must be included in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments or be of equal severity to those listed. Eligibility for SSD benefits involves two main requirements:

• Medical eligibility: You must provide sufficient medical evidence to prove that your physical or mental impairment prevents you from maintaining employment. This includes detailed documentation from healthcare providers, test results, and treatment records.
  
• Work credits: SSD benefits are available to individuals who have contributed to the Social Security system through payroll taxes during their working years. The number of work credits needed depends on your age at the time of disability. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits, while older workers typically need more.

For individuals who meet these criteria, SSD benefits can provide crucial financial assistance, helping cover medical bills, housing, and everyday expenses. However, the application process can be complex, and many initial claims are denied due to incomplete documentation or errors.

Our Greenwood SSD lawyers work closely with clients to build strong cases, gather necessary evidence, and file claims accurately. We can help you appeal the decision and represent you in hearings.

Our Greenwood SSD Lawyers Can Assess Your Denial Letter

Filing for SSD benefits can be a complicated process, and unfortunately, many initial claims are denied. Some reasons for claim denials include:

• Incomplete medical records: Failing to provide sufficient medical evidence to support your claim is one of the most frequent reasons for denial. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires detailed records that demonstrate the severity and duration of your condition.
• Not meeting medical eligibility criteria: If your condition does not align with the SSA’s definition of a disability or does not match something in their Listing of Impairments, your claim may be denied.
• Insufficient work credits: SSD benefits are only available to individuals who have earned enough work credits through previous employment. If you don’t meet this requirement, your claim will likely be denied.
• Earning too much income: If you are still earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold, the SSA may determine that you are not eligible for benefits.
• Procedural errors: Mistakes in completing forms, missing deadlines, or failing to submit requested information can lead to a denial.

Our Social Security Disability Attorneys in Greenwood Can Help Appeal a Denied Claim

If your SSD claim is denied, you still have options. The SSA offers a multi-step appeals process to help claimants fight for the benefits they deserve. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

• Reconsideration: The first step in the appeals process is to request a reconsideration. During this stage, a different SSA representative will review your case to determine if the initial decision was correct. You can submit additional medical evidence or documentation to strengthen your claim.
• Administrative Hearing: If your claim is denied at reconsideration, the next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). During the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present your case, provide testimony, and submit new evidence. 
• Appeals Council Review: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the SSA’s Appeals Council. The council will review your case to determine if the ALJ’s decision was made correctly based on the evidence and SSA regulations. They may either decide your case or send it back to the ALJ for further review.
• Federal Court: If the Appeals Council denies your request or upholds the ALJ’s decision, you can file a lawsuit in federal court. At this stage, a federal judge will review the case to decide whether the SSA made an error in denying your claim.

The appeals process can be overwhelming and difficult to approach without legal guidance. Our Social Security Disability lawyers in Greenwood can help by analyzing the reasons for denial and addressing weaknesses in your case.

We can collect and submit additional medical evidence and question witnesses, such as medical or vocational experts. 

Our Greenwood SSD Attorneys Are Here for You

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits or appealing a denied claim can be a challenging process, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the help of experienced Social Security Disability lawyers at Pilzer Klein, you can build a strong case and fight for the benefits you deserve.

If you are unable to work due to a disabling condition, reach out to Pilzer Klein today for a free consultation. There are no fees or costs unless we win your case, so you have nothing to lose by letting us review your claim.

Call us now or complete our online form to get started.